Anthony Michniak repositions an amethyst quartz crystal in their rock shop .
An array of rocks and fossils found in mines across the state and country are displayed in
Naturally Cool Gems and Jewels .
“ We just got lucky with the timing because we were so internet based that everyone was stuck at home and had a lot of stimulus money . Initially during the pandemic business was at its best online .”
~ Anthony Michniak
that everyone was stuck at home and had a lot of stimulus money . Initially during the pandemic business was at its best online .” Almost half of their business is selling wholesale items to others who do their own jewelry creations . Together , the couple frequently travels to different gem shows and mines with their two children , Matilda and Hendrick .
Having a storefront separate from their home has helped with their work-life balance and they often meet tourists as they travel through town .
“ We meet so many cool people . It ’ s amazing how many people travel through this little small town and you meet people from all over and all types of people . It brings people together like this is a happy business . It ’ s just a joyful thing ,” the owners explained .
A common topic most tourists bring up is a rap that Michniak created on Youtube about a year ago to promote the store for fun . The video has accumulated almost 2,500 views .
He said , “ People were actually coming into the store saying , ‘ We saw this video and we liked it that ’ s why we ’ re in here because we saw this .’”
The store hosted its first field trip with the GEAR Center third graders in October 2022 and did a presentation on fossils . The owners said it was a fun experience and they ’ re open to hosting more students in the future .
Naturally Cool Gems and Jewels is located at 123 W . Broad Ave . in Doerun and operates Monday - Friday from 11 a . m . to 4 p . m . The store ’ s hours may vary .
Online orders can be made through www . empathmoongems . com and www . wholesalerocks . biz .
JUNE 2023 MoultrieScene 43