Sonoma Rock & Mineral Gallery

A Rock & Mineral Gallery? I’m there!
As a rock collector (yes, I know I’m a dork) I’ve grown to love every kind of rock/​crystal imaginable. Yes, even the ugly ones. I’ve researched the heck out of pieces and probably know a little more than the average person. So when I found this gallery I thought for sure they’d have some amazing pieces.
What I found was something that was left to be desired.
The shop was located in the far back of a hidden shopping courtyard. A truly lovely setting even if hidden from the main street of the Square. The store was quite small and was practically shoulder to shoulder with just 10 people inside.
Most of the pieces were small and on the lower end of the price scale. Lots of carved items, etc. The prices were definitely higher than what I’m used to, but then again it’s a tourist destination. What really got me was the amount of dust on the cabinets. Items looked like they’d been sitting for a while and needed attention.
As far as being a gallery I didn’t see anything out of the ordinary that would make it worth while to visit. There was one large amethyst piece but that was really it. Everything else were essentially tchotchke’s.
During our visit we received zero customer service. Granted it was busy the person behind the counter never said a word to anyone, which I found odd. It’s one thing if you’re busy helping a customer, another if you’re just standing around. At least say Hello!
If you’re a New Age enthusiast you’ll probably like this gallery. If you’re a serious specimen collector try your luck elsewhere.

Gorgeous variety of rocks and stones to cause anyone who loves earthy or bright, shiny or dull, sharp or smooth. All of the pretties are covered in this shop. I found myself wanting to run home to create some amazing piece that spoke to how I was feeling.

The Sonoma Rock&Mineral Gallery is in a concealed spot within the El Paseo «mall» of sorts. It’s beside the historic Gen. Joseph Hooker house, a Mexican restaurant, and a Tibetan/​Nepalese imports store. The lady running the store is very friendly. There’s tons of informations on various types of rocks/​minerals. The radio is on, playing
It’s the kind of store that wouldn’t be out of place off the Santa Fe (New Mexico) Plaza. Reasonable prices, friendly service, extensive selection. This shop rocks!