My love of stones started when I was a child, traveling south with my mother during spring break. The landscape from Michigan slowly changed with each hour on the road; stone formations emerged jutting raggedly on either side of my Mom’s 18-passenger van. Inside the van was my own fortress. Surrounded by books, blankets, and music, these trips formed my earliest memories.

Back when well-behaved wasn’t an option and I always was, I could choose a gift or two along the way. I was drawn to the displays of rocks and “gems” the bag, velvet..and mine for filling.

In my early twenties, something more measurable was at play. On the shores of Lake Superior, I found myself seeking solace from the motorized going-ons of the area. I spent my time scouring the shore for the elusive Lake Superior Agate. Inspired by my friend, Rachel — the original Agate snob.

It did take me four summers more to find my first true Lake Superior Agate, and I am thankful for the practice and patience those summers taught me. Back then, Facebook and its groups were in its infancy, so I relied heavily on geologic texts, and good blogs (my original mentor, Don Reeves, and also the Agate Lady of Grand Marais). There were no fast answers, instant replies, or “is this an Agate” posts. My curiosity led to a love for geology, and wonder far beyond Agates.

With many specimens in hand and growing every season, naturally, one has to do something with their collection. My father was generous enough to lend me a vintage Lortone tumbler…which I have never returned. Thanks, Dad!

Tumbling stones created a more intense urge for me to explore what was within the stone, and naturally led to cutting. My first cut was done with an off-brand tile saw. I cut into what I had considered my first Lake Superior Agate. I still have these pieces with me to this day.

I purchased my first piece of commercial equipment in 2019, a cabbing machine. Previously inundated with the burden of tumbled stones, now I found myself overwhelmed by beautiful cabochons. I taught myself metalsmithing not long after.

I have had the pleasure of creating a lapidary programs for an area nonprofit, teaching studio lessons, and keeping my own studio for many years. The thirst of curiosity has never left my palate, I am happy to report. I remain just a servant to the world of knowledge that is here for anyone to take a hold of.

Big Rapids Lapidary began during a time of transition for myself. After selling my home and downsizing, I was only looking for a studio space for myself. When I saw this space, I couldn’t help but reflect on the joy that my previous teaching experience had brought. And I knew it was time to really share my passion with my community.

I set out to create a welcoming space for others to learn lapidary, metalsmithing, and the joy of making something with their own hands - and I did it with my own hands. Every work bench, every corner, every aspect of this studio I have created with my own hands, and now my wish is to share it to your hands. From me to you, from thought to creation, let’s make something together

I believe:

craft is learned through hands-on experience.

everyone must start somewhere.

skills are built with practice, patience, and instruction.

Andrea