We recently had the chance to connect with Aranda Russell and have shared our conversation below.
Aranda, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I feel like we are walking our path but wandering all over. Not all who wander are lost, some of us are just collecting rocks. 🙂
This year has brought us so many new adventures in the outdoor Gem & Mineral Shows and we are planning a trip to the West Coast this winter.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
We are a family owned and operated small rock shop specializing in unique mineral specimens and carvings, along with a complete line of handcrafted natural stone jewelry. Everything we sell has been hand picked.
Our daughter has come onboard as a partner and she is learning to cab and create jewelry. It truly is a a labor of love.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think that hate and stereotypes break the bonds that we have as people. Our combined experiences and adventures should be plenty to remind us that we are all in this together.
We need to actively work on listening to hear people instead of listening for our turn to speak.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
COVID forced us to realign our priorities and to put our family first. Business got put on the back burner and reopening was difficult. We almost walked away from our business in order to survive.
Thankfully, we were given some unique opportunities that turned things around and gave us hope.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. What you see is what you get. I am all in for being authentic and true to myself. And our business is no different! Values and beliefs are front and center in our designs and in our ethical sourcing of minerals.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when my hands are in the earth and digging rocks and connecting with the world. My husband and I have been digging together since we were teenagers. I also feel this same peace when my hands are buried in beads creating pieces of wearable art.
Our daughters are all rockhounds and enjoy the outdoors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.russellgemandjewelry.com
- Instagram: RussellGemJewelry
- Twitter: RussellGemJewelry
- Facebook: RussellGemJewelry
Image Credits
Aranda Russell
