Visitors to the Miami Lakes Farmer’s Market have likely noticed the creations of Gianella Cosio.
The owner of Earthy Earth Gems, Cosio, 25, makes jewelry and home accessories using colorful crystals.
In March, she opened her own retail space at 6809 Main St.
Selling at the market on Saturdays gave the Kendall resident the experience and confidence that she could make a go of running a business out of a brick-and-mortar shop.
“[It made me] think what I’m capable of,” Cosio said.
All the pieces for sale are handmade by Cosio. She’s amassed a following of customers she has met at the market and on Instagram.
She was further convinced to take a chance on a storefront by her supportive boyfriend and customers who would ask if she had a physical location for the business.
Cosio said she settled on Miami Lakes after getting to know the town from being at the market. And she also saw a need for what she creates.
“It was a great fit especially here in Miami Lakes,” Cosio said. “You don’t have any of these crystal shops here.”
The “new age” shop has crystals in all shapes, colors and sizes that she turns into unique mirrors, vanity trays, jewelry, boxes and picture frames. She also sells incense.
The crystals shine in the natural light that pours through the large arch windows. Shoppers who grew up in the 1970s will feel right at home.
It’s also a terrific place to buy gifts. Her jewelry designs – rings made from stainless steel wire and abalone or colored stones that are shaped into hearts and flowers – will appeal to kids, teens and adults.
The prices will too and range from $14 to $24.
A selection of beaded bracelets for men are made with jasper, dark and light wood, bone and lava, and cost $16 - $18.
Cosio said she began making jewelry by crafting necklaces that she displays like macramé on a wall.
Items for sale change often, as every piece is unique and handmade.
Cosio wants her customers to experience the store as a place “where they can feel good energy and feel good, and [where I can] share with people the things I make.”
Earthy Earth Gems is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For more information go to www.earthyearthgems.com or @EarthyEarthGems on Instagram.