Nature's Jewels

Nature's Jewels on Arctic Boulevard in Anchorage describes itself as Alaska's largest rock and lapidary shop. It carries crystals, tumbled and polished stones, minerals, fossils, gemstones and soapstone sourced from Alaska and around the world, together with sage and other metaphysical items, so it suits crystal collectors as well as rockhounds.

What sets the shop apart is its on-site workshop. Staff cut, drill and polish stones, a silversmith works in-house, and the team offers wire wrapping, beading and cord wrapping for custom jewelry made from your own stones or pieces picked in the store. Lapidary tools and supplies are also sold for people who want to work stones themselves.

Small tumbled pieces such as amethyst start at very low prices, which makes it an easy stop for building a first collection, while larger specimens and custom creations cover more serious buyers. Call (907) 349-7863 to confirm current hours before visiting, or browse part of the inventory on the shop's website.