customers have commented that the shop
One of the most popular classes is
is one of the nicest they have seen. Because
the shop’s 10-week silversmithing class.
the store is over 2,000 sq. feet, Tom and
This class costs $150 per session plus
Leslie are able to carry and display a wide
materials and is also open to all skill
variety of inventory. They handpick most of
levels. Beginning students make three
the inventory in a very personal way. “We
projects as part of the sessions.
love the beauty and interest of the product
The classes use sterling silver, both
and choose to stock our store that way,” says
sheet and wire, as well as bronze, copper
Leslie. The couple travels to large wholesale
and nickel. Most people choose to
shows, including the Tucson Gem and
incorporate stones into their designs
Mineral Show, to consider items from
and all materials for the classes are sold
thousands of vendors and buyers from all
at the Appalachian Rock Shop. There
over the world.
is a set schedule of classes but any
The shop strives to be a premier source
interested group of four or more can
of crystals, minerals, gemstones, fossils,
organize any class specifically for the
jewelry and related gifts. Whether one is
group, making for a great party event or
looking for rare gemstones from Russia, a
fun get-together.
newfound mineral vein in Brazil or a newly
The Appalachian Rock Shop and
discovered fossil from Madagascar, Tom
Jewelry Emporium is without a doubt
and Leslie use their extensive contacts
one of the most interesting shops you
to continually bring to their customers
will ever visit. With its large retail and
what is new and exciting in the world of
classroom space, it offers customers
Tom and Leslie Metarko – proud owners for over 20 years.
rocks, minerals and fossils. The shop is the
a large selection of rocks, minerals,
foremost destination for serious collectors
crystals and fossils as well as one-of-ain search of rare and museum-quality
kind sterling jewelry and the expertise
specimens but also provides a fun and educational experience for the
of degreed geologists who work diligently to make your visit and
more casual collector.
experience special.
Uniquely, the Appalachian Rock Shop is also a Jewelry Emporium
“Our shop has been successful not only because of the merchandise,
and carries a wide variety of beautiful, one-of-a-kind sterling jewelry.
but because of our passion for what we sell and what we can teach
The shop also offers a variety of jewelry making classes throughout the
our customers,” says Leslie. “The earth is amazing and has so many
year. Most classes are one-day “make and take” workshops available
beautiful treasures to share with us. We embrace being a small shop
to anyone from beginners to advanced students. “Anyone with an
that is dedicated to its customers.”
interest and desire can participate,” says Leslie. The classes offer
For more information about the Appalachian Rock Shop and
instruction on various subjects including wire wrapping, spiral ring,
Jewelry Emporium and a schedule of jewelry making classes, visit
prong pendant, metal etching, hammered and riveted jewelry and
appalachianrockshop.com. ■
more. Classes cost $45 plus materials.
In addition to beautiful
gems, rocks and jewelry, the
shop also offers a unique
fossil collection that appeals
to serious collectors and
casual enthusiasts alike.
Cranberry | Spring 2016 | icmags.com 41