“The rock collection was a story of the wideness of creation, of the marvels that were there for those willing to wonder, to re-immerse themselves in childish awe.”
Angela Abraham
Informal Definition of Rockhound: Noun: rockhound; Plural noun: rockhounds1. a geologist or amateur collector of mineral specimens
We’re often asked where do we get the beautiful and unusual stones that Silversmith Ron uses in his one-of-a-kind Silverstone pieces where each piece is carefully selected, providing inspiration for his future designs. We are truly fortunate to have discovered a dynamic duo in Maine who have become our source for the unique stones Ron incorporates into his bracelets, earrings and pendants.
Four years ago, we attended a gem show in Maine. After browsing many of the booths, we came upon one with the best collection of semi-precious gemstones we had ever seen. The owners were Chris and Theresa Peek of Seaside Stones. In addition, to their incredible array of stones, we were impressed with their knowledge and enthusiasm for their collections, and this serendipitous meeting was the beginning of a greatly valued relationship…..both personally and professionally.
During our discussion we learned that while both were formally in Education, these rockhounds have turned their passion into a thriving business.
Curious about the story of how this transpired, and their collected their incredible array of stones, led to the following questions and their responses for this blogpost.
1. How long have you been “rockhounds”?
Both have been long time “rockhounds”. Chris inherited his love of rocks from his grandfather, where beginning at the age of five, he began exploring with him and collecting agates and fossils, including petrified wood. Theresa says she “inherited” the passion when she married Chris, “a rockhound” by marriage.
2. How did your love of rock collecting turn into a successful business?
When Chris retired, it wasn’t to have a “rock business”. It was a hobby, which became a side business and then grew into a full time business.
They began their business in Houston, Texas, initially doing craft shows. As their business expanded, they transitioned to semi-local gem and mineral shows. Eventually they moved to the coast of Maine, where they had a store and continued to do shows in Texas as well as shows on the east coast. In 2023, they participated in 21 shows, including one of the shows in Tucson.
3. How do you select your stones?
Chris and Theresa choose their stones based on what they like, what their customers request, and what’s new, unusual and/or unique on the market.
4. Where do you find your stones?
Their stones come from all over the world. They have been fortunate to travel in their individual careers, and in their travels have created relationships with dealers from different countries. They have established trusted relationships with partners in India, Indonesia and other countries.
5. Which stones are your favorites?
Chris’s love of agates was inspired by his forays with his grandfather, in particular fossils and Blue Opalized Petrified Wood. They are both drawn to stones that have “pictures” or stories in them. Personally, they collect stone spheres and have over one hundred in their collection.
6. What do you enjoy the most about your rock business?
Both Chris and Theresa enjoy meeting and talking with other rockhounds, and artists who like Silversmith Ron, who makes beautiful jewelry out of their stones. They enjoy traveling and discovering new restaurants to dine in. Where they live on the coast in Maine, the culinary choices are limited, so when out and about, they go on culinary adventures.
To discover more about this dynamic duo and their incredible stones:
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