Gary's Gem Garden

For residents of New Jersey, discovering a local business that offers both unparalleled quality and a truly unique selection can be a real gem. When it comes to jewelry, crystals, and the wonders of the earth, Gary's Gem Garden in Mt Laurel Township stands out as a beloved institution. Since 1973, this family-owned establishment has been a destination for those seeking natural, genuine, and ethically sourced treasures. Far more than just a typical jewelry store, Gary's Gem Garden offers an expansive and fascinating array of items, making it a truly special place to explore for gifts, personal adornments, or additions to a growing collection.

What makes Gary's Gem Garden so appealing to local users? It's the unique blend of a vast inventory, deep expertise, and a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with everyone from seasoned collectors to curious newcomers. As one delighted customer put it, "An incredible array of gems and minerals. No spiritual upcharge. Knowledgeable and friendly staff, not much more to ask for. Good job guys." This speaks volumes about the transparent and customer-focused approach Gary's Gem Garden takes. Another review highlights the broad appeal: "Yo we love gary’s! Wife loved the book section, daughter is thrilled to be tumbling some interesting rocks; and my friend got a nice opal for her spouses birthday! Will definitely be back to gary’s." This illustrates how the store caters to diverse interests, making it a perfect spot for families and individuals alike.

The journey of Gary's Gem Garden began with owner Gary Weinstein's childhood passion for collecting stones, gems, and minerals. What started as an 11-year-old's hobby evolved into what is now recognized as one of the largest and oldest rock shops on the East Coast. This deep-rooted passion is evident in the quality and variety of items available. Gary, along with his wife Denise and their dedicated staff like Emily and Michelle, ensures that every visit is a positive and engaging experience. Their commitment to sourcing products from around the world and constantly adding new and unusual items ensures there's always something new to discover. Whether you're a long-time patron whose parents brought you here as a child, or a first-time visitor, Gary's Gem Garden promises a journey into the fascinating world of geology and adornment.

Gary's Gem Garden is conveniently located at 3119 NJ-38, Mt Laurel Township, NJ 08054, USA. This prime location on Route 38 makes it highly accessible for residents across New Jersey, particularly those in South Jersey and the surrounding areas. Route 38 is a major highway, ensuring straightforward navigation whether you're driving from nearby communities or from further afield.

For those traveling from the north, utilizing the NJ Turnpike to exits #7 or #5 is recommended. If approaching from I-295, as there's no direct eastbound exit onto Route 38, visitors can take Exit 43 (Delran/Rancocas Woods), turn left towards Rancocas Woods, follow to the light, and make a right onto Masonville Road. After about a mile, turn right (west) onto Route 38, and Gary's Gem Garden will be approximately 0.2 miles away. Alternatively, take I-295 onto Route 38 at Exit #40, which heads west, then turn around at Marter Avenue and head east for two miles, returning westbound at Ark Road. This clear guidance ensures that finding this treasure trove is as easy as possible. The store also offers ample parking, contributing to a stress-free visit for all customers.

Gary's Gem Garden offers an extensive array of services that go beyond what you might expect from a typical jewelry store, catering to a wide range of interests and needs.

• Extensive Selection of Natural Gems and Minerals: They specialize in 100% natural, genuine, earth-mined gemstones, crystals, cabochons, meteorites, and more. This is a core part of their offering and what truly sets them apart.

• Custom Jewelry Design: Gary is a skilled jeweler who can create dream pieces of jewelry, including engagement rings, birthday or anniversary presents, or custom creations for personal indulgence. They work with sterling silver, gold, and platinum.

• Jewelry Sales: A wide selection of fine jewelry featuring genuine gemstones in various forms, including faceted stones, cabochons, and beads, is available.

• Jewelry Repair and Maintenance: They offer a comprehensive suite of repair services, including jewelry and watch cleaning and repair, machine and hand engraving, laser welding and plating, remounting and resizing rings, and replacing/repairing clasps. Notably, they also restring pearls and other beads and even repair costume jewelry, a service many other stores decline.

• Fossils, Shells, and Metaphysical Items: Beyond traditional jewelry, they offer a fascinating collection of fossils, shells, tumbled gemstones, trees, wands, spheres, eggs, obelisks, pyramids, animal carvings, bookends, agate slabs, and a variety of metaphysical items.

• Rock Tumbling Supplies and Books: As noted in customer reviews, they offer items for rock tumbling, and a dedicated book section for enthusiasts to deepen their knowledge.

• Lectures and Educational Events: Gary himself, a seasoned expert, gives "Rocks & Minerals 101" lectures, including for groups like Boy Scouts. This highlights their commitment to education and sharing their passion.

• Corporate and Bulk Discounts: They offer bulk discounts on tumbled stones, with 10% off for 5-9 of the same stone and 20% off for 10-12. This is great for collectors or those looking for multiple gifts.

Gary's Gem Garden possesses several distinctive features that make it a truly unique and cherished local business in New Jersey.

• Family-Owned and Operated Since 1973: With over 50 years in business, Gary's Gem Garden is a testament to enduring quality, expertise, and a strong connection with the community. This long-standing presence builds significant trust and loyalty.

• Largest and Oldest Rock Shop on the East Coast: This impressive claim underscores the sheer volume and diversity of their inventory, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in geology, minerals, and crystals.

• Vast and Diverse Inventory: Their collection spans everything from traditional jewelry to unique raw minerals, fossils, and metaphysical items. This broad appeal means there's truly something for everyone, regardless of their specific interest in gems and minerals.

• Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff: Customers consistently praise the staff for their expertise and welcoming demeanor, creating a pleasant and informative shopping experience. They are known for providing guidance without any "spiritual upcharge" or pressure.

• Community Engagement: Gary's Gem Garden actively participates in community events, such as being an official stop for the "Poem in Your Pocket" event with the Mount Laurel School District. They also host family-friendly events like scavenger hunts.

• Commitment to Alzheimer's Awareness: The store is a primary advocate for Alzheimer's Awareness, making personal donations, fundraising, and participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer's. This community-minded approach adds another layer of respect for the business.

• Acceptance of Costume Jewelry Repair: Unlike many jewelers, Gary's Gem Garden is willing to repair costume jewelry, as well as other non-jewelry items like pocketbooks and shoes, showcasing their extensive repair capabilities and commitment to customer service.

Gary's Gem Garden actively offers promotions and special deals to its customers. They have a standing bulk discount on tumbled stones: buy 5-9 of the same tumbled stone and receive 10% off, or buy 10-12 and get 20% off your order. This is a fantastic offer for collectors or those looking to purchase multiple pieces.

They also invite customers to join their newsletter to stay updated on the latest inventory arrivals, sales, and events, and to receive coupons for birthdays or anniversaries. This is an excellent way for local New Jersey residents to ensure they don't miss out on any upcoming deals or exclusive offers. While specific, temporary sales fluctuate, these ongoing discounts and newsletter benefits provide consistent value. They also participate in local shows and sales, such as "Treasures of the Earth," where they offer their unique items.

• Address: 3119 NJ-38, Mt Laurel Township, NJ 08054, USA

• Phone: (856) 795-5077

• Mobile Phone: +1 856-795-5077 (for texting)

• Website: www.garysgemgarden.com

• Email: info@GarysGemGarden.com

For New Jersey locals, Gary's Gem Garden is more than just a store; it’s a community cornerstone and a unique resource for all things related to gems, minerals, and custom jewelry. Its decades-long history as a family-owned business instills a deep sense of trust and familiarity, distinguishing it from impersonal chain retailers. The fact that it’s known as one of the largest and oldest rock shops on the East Coast means that residents don't have to travel far to access an incredibly diverse and high-quality collection of natural treasures.

The highly knowledgeable and friendly staff, a recurrent theme in customer feedback, ensures that whether you're a seasoned gemologist or simply curious about crystals, you'll receive expert guidance and a warm welcome. Their comprehensive range of services, from intricate custom jewelry design to specialized repairs even for costume jewelry, caters to virtually any need a New Jersey resident might have for their precious items. Furthermore, their active participation in local events and their commendable support for Alzheimer's Awareness demonstrate a genuine commitment to the community they serve. For families, collectors, or anyone seeking a truly unique gift or a beautiful piece of jewelry, Gary's Gem Garden offers an experience that is both enriching and deeply personal, solidifying its place as a cherished local treasure in the Garden State.