Secrets - Hidden Gems

INTO THE MYSTIC

BY KERRIE HOUSTON REIGHTLEY

Some people search the world for hidden treasures of the metaphys ical, spiritual or physical variety. But we need look no further than our own backyard to find Hidden Gem, sister company to Willowtree Market. Here, islanders can get Tarot card or astrology readings; peruse crystals and hand-made jewelry; and learn about intentions and manifestations, meditation and the metaphysical properties of stones.

For Hidden Gem and Willowtree Market owner Heather Jaynes, the throughline of the stores is wellness. “Willowtree has supplements and health food, but Hidden Gem is more about spiritual wellness,” she said. “My mission is to bring wellness to our community and connect those two components to experience a different level of healing or wellness.”

Jaynes’ idyllic childhood memories are of exploring alone through the forests and streams of her great-grandmother’s property in Franklin, North Carolina. Known for its sapphires, garnets and rubies, her female relatives’ favorite pastime was sifting through dirt and finding stones. “They weren’t gem quality, but it was very exciting,” said Jaynes. Franklin proved fertile ground for her first encounters with “mystical experiences,” a deep spiritual connection with the world around her and the importance of women supporting one another.

Not unlike Jaynes’ childhood, Hidden Gem store manager Lou LaPlant grew up in Vermont searching for fairies, quartz and mica. About 10 years ago, while going through a rough patch, a friend introduced her to crystals and their metaphysical properties. “I wanted to believe in magic,” she said, “but was skeptical. At the very least, I’d hold a crystal, take a deep breath and get my shoulders away from my ears.”

But after studying the stones intensely for the past decade, she’s become known as the “crystal maven” and offers private consultations to those seeking a stone that will align with their needs. “Everyone is searching for something,” she said. “We have stones for every budget, from something to fit in your pocket to stunning statement pieces for your home.”

Hidden Gem is located at 380 Winslow Way, across from Town & Country