August 2020 - The 20th Anniversary Edition
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Happy Birthday to Nature's Treasures!
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Greetings everyone! I hope this newsletter finds you and yours happy and still staying healthy for many more months to come. Through all our extra efforts, I am happy to report we are still COVID-free and blessed to continue to be a place of peace and harmony that provides the tools to help everyone find spiritual joy and consonance during these trying times.
This year is our 20th year since the birth of Nature’s Treasures in Texas and the fruition of a manifestation my mother and I began in 1987. We were sitting on my back porch in Phoenix, AZ talking about all the new changes in my life and the development of all these new metaphysical energies and new ideas her and I were experiencing. I said I wanted someday to blend my love of rocks and this new metaphysical energy and have the largest metaphysical and rock store in the United States. My mom said she wanted to prove that you can continue to communicate with those you love after they have passed and she would prove it in my rock and metaphysical store. We declared this as our trial of this new energy we were learning about called manifestation. And yes, in case you haven’t guessed, after my mom passed she was able to prove what she manifested to me and several of my customers in my largest rock and metaphysical store in the US.
In these past 20 years we have seen much growth and many changes at Nature’s Treasures. We are the place you all have made us, and none of this would be possible without you. I am blessed by the many people who have come through our doors and the talented, knowledgeable, creative employees who have helped my dream grow and become an intricate part of why you come to Natures Treasures. We hope to continue to be your special place to come to for at least another 20 years.
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I hope you enjoy this issue of our newsletter, a tribute to proof of what we are all capable of if we just keep believing.
Please everyone, stay safe and healthy.
Blessings,
Karen and the Staff
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Nature's Treasures Soaking Up the Limelight
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In the past Sardonyx and Peridot were the only birthstones for August. In July 2016 both The Jeweler's of America and The American Gem Trade Association added Spinel as a third birthstone for August. What a fortunate decision for those born in this month!
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Business Spotlight: Nature’s Treasures
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Nature's Treasures is designed, as described by owner Karen Richards, to be a blending of science and spirituality. It's a business that fosters community — through the retail shop, activities and special events that take place on Nature's Treasure campus, and now, more than ever, through the company's online store and virtual connections.
It's been 20 years since Richards started the business, which has become a community hub, both in its hometown of Austin, Texas, and online. Undoubtedly, Nature's Treasures is the product of years of hard work, planning, saving and investing, and collaboration. Still, it is also the result of dreams...
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Nature’s Treasures: Rockin’ Austin Since 2000
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The proverb, ‘a rolling stone gathers no moss,’ is frequently used today to refer to those who stay active to avoid stagnation. For Karen Richards, her wanderlust and independent spirit kept her on the move...
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A direct and compelling headline
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In the beginning there was only One, the red-headed Karen, and from Her mind the brainchild, Nature's Treasures, was born. As the Head of Nature's Treasures, Karen sought out those that could nourish her creation by building it and growing it. She found the golden-haired Joan and sable-haired Linda, whom would come to be known as the Hand and Heart of Nature's Treasures, respectively. Joan provided structure, training, guidance and discipline, while Linda brought joy with her hugs, advice, and love of all people.
The Head, Hand and Heart of Nature's Treasures laid the foundations for the mythical temple you know today, and although you do not necessarily see them, this Triple Goddess continues to reside in this place with the lessons they have taught living on.
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Where the Boulders Came From - 2011
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One spring day a friend of Nature's Treasures invited us to his land. The man named Zee shared with us the treasures unearthed on his family properties in the Southwest. Mostly mining for copper mineral, his yard was full of azure blues and lush greens. From his bounty, Nature's Treasures obtained the azurite, malachite, and chrysocolla boulders that you see around the property to this day.
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Cygnus the Dragon Joins the Team - 2014
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Our dragon-friend was named after a constellation meaning "The Swan," and reminds us that appearances are not always as they seem. Although a fierce-looking dragon with long claws and blood-shot eyes, Cygnus is a friend to all and guardian for his loved ones and home at Nature's Treasures.
Greeting customers at the door, Cygnus reminds us all of our inherent ability to transform from an ugly duckling into an elegant swan as well as the power we possess.
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Reaching Out to Mike's Place - 2016
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Michael, our Marketing & Outreach Director, helps to educate the community, whether through school programs, holistic events, government programs, or non-profits such as the Mike's Place program offered through Meals on Wheels of Central Texas.
Educating the community at-large has always been at the core of Nature's Treasures, believing that education and understanding is the key to solving many issues in the world.
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When you find Llanite at Nature's Treasures, there is a high probability that we sledged and chiseled it out of the ground ourselves during one of our trips out to Selah, Bamberger Ranch Preserve near the Llano Uplift.
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As Nature's Treasures evolves, so too do the faces you may see. Here is one of our past management teams representing our major departments: Accounting, Community Events Center, Inventory, Retail, and Rock Depot. Since then we have also established our growing Online Store department, so remember to check out that area too!
The team was tucked in the Largest Natural Sit-In Amethyst Geode in North America! Originally from South America, this crystal represents an ancient bubble that was trapped in a giant lava flow. When the lava cooled the vacancy left by the bubble filled up with ground water and crystals grew!
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A Safe Haven in Any Year - 2018
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One of our talented part-timers, Tamatha, took this amazing photograph of one of our Buddha statues. The grayscale nature of the photograph reminds us that most answers are not found in the black-and-white, but in the gray.
Nature's Treasures has always been a safe haven for individuals regardless of their spirituality, political affiliation, or other self-identifiers. This Buddha statue joined our collection in 2018 and represents one facet of the Nature's Treasures community.
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The Nature's Treasures staff works hard to provide the best service and experience we can for anyone that comes through our doors. Working retail builds a lot of character, each individual needing to exercise patience and understanding using communication and specialized knowledge to provide answers and solutions for patrons. As with everyone, the holidays can be an especially busy time, so we appreciate the efforts of Karen to make each individual feel special during our holiday parties each year.
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Nature's Treasures 20th Anniversary - 2020
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We chose to have our 20th Anniversary Special Edition in August because August 8th, 2014 was declared "Nature's Treasures Day" by the Austin City Council to commemorate the arrival of the Largest Natural Sit-In Amethyst Geode in North America in our shop.
Whether you remember us for a personal connection you made in the store, an epiphany or revelation about life, the beauty of nature you can see and touch, or for our iconic billboard featuring owner, Karen Richards, thank you to everyone that has and continues to support Nature's Treasures near or far.
Many blessings to you all!
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What content matters most to you?
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1. Affiliates & non-profit information
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2. Product updates and information
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3. Specialty blogs focused on non-stone topics
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4. Specialty blogs focused on stone properties
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5. Practitioner information
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6. Events and activities in our Events Center
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7. Other - submit suggestions for additions to marketing@ntrocks.com
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The Treasure Tome: A Trove of Knowledge
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August Birthstone- Spinel
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In the past Sardonyx and Peridot were the only birthstones for August. In July 2016 both The Jeweler's of America and The American Gem Trade Association added Spinel as a third birthstone for August. What a fortunate decision for those born in this month!
Learn the fascinating history of Spinel HERE
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Nature's Treasures was founded in 2000, but long before it grew into the Nature's Treasures we know today there were three legendary women that laid the foundations. One of those three women, the Heart of Nature's Treasures, Linda Jane, brought soul and joy into many lives.
With wise words and open arms, Linda was like a mother to the Nature's Treasures family, becoming the deepest of friends with employees and customers alike. For those of us who knew her, we remember her smile, her laugh, and her voice.
Linda's voice went beyond her multilingual ability or singing talent, and touched the very heart of any who heard it. Linda changed lives by supporting and empowering each of us as we struggled, loved and grew.
Although Linda passed from this world in November 2019, we know she will always be with us, guiding, loving and supporting everyone whose life she touched.
Love Love, Love Linda Hugs.
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You may have seen the sweetly smiling redhead in an enormous geode on a billboard alongside I-35 in Austin, but who is that Mona Lisa of crystals that some of us pass by everyday? Meet Karen Richards, the Owner and Founder of Nature’s Treasures Texas!
Born in California, she has explored and lived in many regions of the US before making her home in Austin, TX over 30 years ago. She has been a successful business woman in a wide variety of fields for over 40 years and is so happy and humbled to share Nature’s Treasures with you all for the last 20 years! Her love of Nature is apparent from the beautiful natural treasures she chooses to place in her store, the classes she brings to the community, and her commitment to sustainability and responsibility in caring for the Earth and all of its inhabitants.
Karen feels fortunate to have had so many enlightening and heart expanding adventures in her life and knows they are not over; indeed, some of them are just beginning! She thanks each and every one of you for your support over the years, for helping her create the largest Metaphysical, Rock, & Mineral Store in the USA, and for your shared love of Nature’s Treasures.
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Lapis Lazuli: Stone of Truth
One of the most beautiful and sought after stones in history is Lapis Lazuli. From ancient cultures to modern day crystal healing mavens, this stone has been prized from time immemorial. Read more about the uses, history & healing properties of Lapis Lazuli on our online blog now!
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Shop Nature's Treasures ONLINE!
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Shipping Orders Daily
Free Standard Shipping for Domestic Order over $50.00
Shop online with confidence -- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, Free Return Shipping. Details HERE.
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Citrine Polished Cut Base Grade A 10.5lbs
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Chakra Kit: The Seven Doors of Energy
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Collector's Crystal Mineral Set - Rough
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Ammonite Fossil Half 8.5oz
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Onyx Lamp with Wood Base - Style A
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Amethyst Cluster Crystal Ball
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Green Phantom Quartz Restocked
These lab synthesized quartz clusters get their green color from Chromium, which gives them a pure and unique energy!
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Framed Butterflies Restocked
These insects are ecologically farmed in S America and allowed to live out their full life cycle before being harvested to stimulate local economies.
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Blue Scheelite
This rock gets its blue hue from the presence of Blue Dolomite inter-layered with White Calcite and Scheelite and is sometimes called Blue Cobalt Lace!
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Auralite 23 Jewelry
This North American rock unifies the energies of 23 different minerals making it one of the highest vibration stones on Earth!
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Lapidary Services
Including Drilling, Cutting, Polishing, and
Custom Cabochon Gemstones
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Fluorescent Minerals
Fluorescence occurs in certain minerals when they are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light
Inquire about our Rock Star Observatory HERE!
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Which of these Nature's Treasures sponsored events would you enjoy most in a COVID-free world?
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Practitioner Open House & Social
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Other - submit suggestions for events to community@ntrocks.com
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In The Community Events Center
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Stay tuned in to our Calendar and Upcoming Events Pages for the latest updates on events being held in our Community Events Center.
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Classes | Lectures | Workshops & More
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Nature's Treasures has a 2,200 sq ft (56' x 40') Auditorium that seats 150 available for your event.
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August REMOTE Practitioners
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In order to serve you during these uncertain times,
these practitioners offer REMOTE SERVICES!
Click on a practitioner's name to read more about them or contact them directly.
Don't forget to mention that we referred you to get special rates when available!
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Available: Su-W & F, 10a-7p
Call: 512-923-9228
E-mail: allpathsleadom@gmail.com
Available: By Online Appointment
Available: 10a-8p
Call: 406-334-0646
Available: By Appointment & Divine Timing
Call: 512-922-4723
Available: Flexible Hours, Divine Timing
Call: 512-203-6320
E-mail: themagicalmatrix@gmail.com
Available: By Online Appointment
Available: Flexible Hours, Divine Timing
Call: 210-560-1189
E-mail: Mia_Michel@icloud.com
Available: By Appointment Only
Call: 512-577-4055
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Available: By Appointment Only
Call: 512-454-0529
E-mail: deborahdahmenhealing@gmail.com
Available: By Online Appointment; Mon-Wed, 12-6p
Available: Flexible Hours, Divine Timing
Call: 559-779-5510
E-Mail: heaven_pathways_earth@yahoo.com
Available: Most Afternoons, E-mail for Appt
E-mail: kramer@astrofish.net
Available: Flexible Hours, Divine Timing
Call: 512-998-6089
E-mail: treestemple@gmail.com
Available: Flexible Hours, Divine Timing
Call: 512-351-1032
Available: By Appointment; Su, Th, 1-3p
Call: 512-695-5851
E-mail: annebirlin@hotmail.com
Available: M-F, 10:30a-6:30p; Sa, 11a-2:30p
Call: 512-577-7310
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Personal Shopping Services
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Custom Jewelry with Crystal Heart Studio
Merlyn Dyches-Bessent, metaphysical jeweler/artist and owner of the Crystal Heart Studio, will be offering stone wiring, wrapping and intuitive reading services for individuals ordering from the Nature's Treasures Online Store. Leave a note in your online order special instructions to request your FREE CONSULTATION.
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Austin's Crystal Whisperer
What are your crystals telling you?
Dianna, Austin's Crystal Whisperer offers her Personal Crystal Readings to help you find, understand and connect with the rocks, minerals and crystals that are perfect for you!
Rates start as low as $20.00 for 10 minutes, phone sessions available.
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DID YOU MISS THE
FREE LIVE 30-minute Zoom Intro?
Fear Not!
The FULL 6-PART VIDEO
DIY EXPERIENTIAL WORKSHOP
(Regular price $88)
is being offered for the special price of just $55!
THE 5D WATCH PARTY IS NOT A TYPICAL ONLINE COURSE…..
Leah has created a DIY in-home experiential for those who are choosing to Self-empower and evolve through this time of great transition.
The time is NOW to expand Our 5D consciousness.
Contact Leah for More Details TODAY!
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Nature's Treasures Continues COVID-19 Safety Protocols
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Nature's Treasures of Texas values the health and well-being of our customers and staff. For that reason, we will continue with the following safety precautions through August and adjust as necessary to local and state ordinances as well as CDC recommendations.
Through the month of September, we will continue to operate with adjusted hours and reduced capacity. We are limiting our capacity to 18 customers in the Retail Showroom and 13 customers in the Rock Depot/Yard, so come prepared to wait in line rain or shine. Bring the weather gear you need to be comfortable and safe. Our doors open at 11:00a and close at 4:50p, but no worries! We are open 7 days a week for your convenience!
For entry, customers will be required to: (1) wear their own face/mouth coverings at all times while on the property, (2) sanitize gloves/hands with at least 60% alcohol content upon entry to an area, and (3) exercise social distancing at check-out. Individuals with children will be asked to keep all young ones within arms reach or may be asked to leave. We encourage the differently-abled to come with a friend or loved one to help with store navigation during this time due to limited staffing. Only certified Service Animals trained to aid with a Disability will be allowed to enter the building. We will not be offering certain in-store services such as personal shopping, aura readings or practitioner readings. No food or drink will be allowed into the building. No public bathrooms will be available during this time.
If you feel unwell or show symptoms of COVID-19 (dry cough, shortness of breath, or fever), PLEASE STAY HOME and shop online! If you cannot or do not want to wear a mask or follow our in-store policies, please stay home and shop online. We are continuing to offer Free Next Day No Contact Curbside Pick Up as well as Free Domestic Shipping on Orders over $50 in addition to other exclusive Online Discounts! If you know what you want, take advantage of our Free Personal Shopping Service for online orders by e-mailing us HERE!
Returns/Exchanges will be conducted BY APPOINTMENT ONLY to minimize contact and accommodate customer needs. Please e-mail michaelk@ntrocks.com to schedule your return or exchange.
Thank you for your continued support and patience during this time of uncertainty and transition. Special discounts and free next day, no-contact curbside pick up will remain available for individuals that would rather get their treasures from the safety of home.
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THINGS TO REMEMBER:
*If you show symptoms of COVID-19 or feel sick, please Stay Home
*Online Shopping, FREE Curbside Pickup and FREE Personal Shopping available for individuals that cannot wear masks
*Storefront Hours: 11a-4:50p, Daily
*Max Retail Capacity: 18 customers
*Max Depot Capacity: 13 customers
*Face-covering is required for entry
*Gloves will be provided upon request
*Hands must be sanitized at each entry; 60%+ alcohol sanitizer is provided or bring your own
*Social distancing will be exercised at entry & check out lines
*Be prepared for long lines at entry and check-out
*Limited services available
*Store credit & gift cards may be used at checkout
*No public restrooms available
*No food or drink allowed
*No pets allowed
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Nature's Treasures will continue to review recommendations made by local government and the Center for Disease Control to move forward in a socially responsible way to best support staff, customers, the community and the economy.
If you would like to be added to a COVID-19 Response Notification to stay updated on the Nature's Treasures plan-of-action, please update your e-mail subscriptions HERE.
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Vote for the Non-Profit Affiliate closest to your heart.
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Austin Gem & Mineral Society
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Selah, Bamberger Ranch Preserve
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The Rainforest Partnership
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Meals on Wheels - Mike's Place
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Paleontological Society of Austin
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Contact Information
Phone: 512.472.5015
Store Hours
Sunday - Saturday 11:00am - 5:00pm
Visit NTRocks.com for Holiday Hours
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Look For Us On Social Media
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