In 2010, I made a significant investment in a 25-acre forested property located in Northern Michigan, intending to provide a serene family retreat. Within this property, I discovered a dormant gravel pit, which would later become the epicenter of an extraordinary journey.
The transformation began in 2019 when I sold my old trailer to a former colleague. To my surprise, he expressed interest in acquiring some of the seemingly ordinary 'rocks' scattered across my property. When I inquired further, he revealed their true identity: "Petoskey fossil stones." This revelation ignited my curiosity, prompting me to embark on a quest for knowledge.
Determined to understand the origins of these unique fossils and the diverse array of types exclusive to the Great Lakes and Michigan region, I delved into research, involving not only myself but also my family. The more we uncovered, the more captivated we became by their ancient heritage and the nuances that set each one apart.
Our newfound passion quickly evolved into a cherished family pastime as we ventured together to uncover these remarkable treasures. With reverence for their natural beauty, I embarked on the creative journey of crafting necklaces, each showcasing these fossil stones in their unaltered state. Employing only a transparent polymer coating to enhance their intricate designs and colors, I aimed to preserve their authenticity.
The encouragement of friends and family led me to debut our creations at various craft shows, where I refined my techniques over the past five years, achieving remarkable success. However, it became increasingly clear that a broader audience awaited the opportunity to experience these distinctive, one-of-a-kind fossil and gemstone necklaces.
Recognizing the potential to make our products more accessible and to share our passion with a wider audience, I decided to create a dedicated platform. The inception of our website marked the next chapter in our journey, where we aim to showcase our handcrafted creations to a discerning clientele.
This endeavor holds special significance, as all the proceeds generated thus far have been diligently directed toward securing a brighter future for my twin daughters' college education. We are excited to invite you to explore our collection, and your support will not only enable us to pursue our passion but also contribute to the aspirations of our next generation. Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey.