Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Stone Jewelry
What is a Petoskey Stone?
Petoskey Stone is a fossilized coral known for its distinctive hexagonal pattern. It is Michigan's official state stone and is especially associated with the northern Michigan and Great Lakes shoreline. Each stone has its own unique pattern and character, making every piece of Petoskey Stone jewelry one of a kind.
Where are Petoskey Stones found?
Petoskey Stones are found primarily along the shores of Lake Michigan, particularly in northern Michigan. They can also be found in gravel beds and other areas where glacial deposits exposed the fossilized coral. Storms and wave action can uncover new stones along the shoreline.
Is your Petoskey Stone from Michigan?
Our Petoskey Stone jewelry is created using Michigan Petoskey Stone. Because natural stones vary in color, pattern and size, every piece has its own individual appearance and character.
What is Leland Blue?
Leland Blue is a distinctive blue slag found near Leland, Michigan. It is a historic byproduct of the area's former iron-smelting industry. Its beautiful blue, aqua and occasionally greenish tones make it a sought-after material for Michigan jewelry and collectibles.
What other Michigan stones do you use?
In addition to Petoskey Stone and Leland Blue, we work with a variety of stones associated with Michigan and the Great Lakes region, including Lake Michigan beach stones, agates, jaspers and other natural stones. Availability varies depending on the material.
Is Michigan stone jewelry handmade?
Yes. Our jewelry is handcrafted in Northern Michigan. We select stones for their individual color, pattern and character and combine them with quality jewelry materials to create unique pieces inspired by Michigan's natural landscape.
Are all Petoskey Stone jewelry pieces different?
Yes. Natural Petoskey Stone varies considerably from one piece to another. The fossil pattern, color, shape and amount of visible coral can all differ. That's part of what makes natural stone jewelry special—your piece has characteristics that cannot be exactly duplicated.
How should I care for Petoskey Stone jewelry?
Petoskey Stone is a natural fossil material and should be treated with care. Avoid harsh chemicals, prolonged soaking and impacts that could scratch or damage the stone. For most pieces, gently wiping the stone with a soft, slightly damp cloth is the safest way to clean it. Add a drop of mineral oil to bring out the Petoskey pattern.
What makes Michigan stone jewelry special?
Michigan stone jewelry combines natural beauty with a connection to place. A Petoskey Stone, piece of Leland Blue or Great Lakes stone isn't simply a decorative material—it can represent Michigan's geological history, Great Lakes shoreline and northern Michigan heritage.
Where can I learn more about Michigan stones?
Visit our Stone Guides to learn about the history, geology, identification and unique characteristics of Petoskey Stone, Leland Blue, agates and other Michigan and Great Lakes stones.