Mark and Sarah McDaniel have always loved the exquisite beauty and uniqueness of crystals. Several years ago the couple went to Arkansas. They dug in the dirt and pulled from the ground crystals that had never been seen by human eyes.
“That was so enjoyable. We knew we wanted to share this passion with others,” says Sarah. So in October 2023 the couple opened Oak & Amethyst, a small, family-owned business run by the two of them and Eleanor, their 6-year-old daughter.
The store has more than 1,500 hand-selected specimens and carvings, each of which tells its own story. Crystals have had a wide variety of uses throughout human history, including being used for protection, as energy amplifiers, and as nature’s natural healers. In addition to crystals and stones, they also offer incense, sage and palo santo, jewelry, statuaries, tarot cards, and oracle decks. The Kid’s Corner has natural wood toys, natural musical instruments and a selection of books about crystals.
The 1,000-square-foot store is covered in vines, so when you step inside, it’s as if you’re walking through a forest. The vibe is so cozy and inviting that people often stop in to decompress after a stressful day.
“They tell us that after walking around amongst the crystals for an hour, they feel better,” says Sarah. “Patrons can walk through and soak up the beauty of these crystals, making them feel calm, relaxed and happy.”
During the week leading up to the solar eclipse, they will run a sale, offering 20% off all sun and moon carvings, as well as 20% off moonstone and sunstone. They will also be selling Yooperlite moon carvings. Yooperlite is a grayish stone that hides an amazing secret; when held under an ultraviolet light, it emits a brilliant orange glow, reminiscent of lava.
“This will make a memorable keepsake of the solar eclipse,” says Sarah.
While they are usually closed on Mondays, they will be open on April 8.
“The solar eclipse has become the sign of rebirth, renewal and balance in someone’s life,” says Sarah. “We feel like being open that day gives us a unique opportunity to celebrate a once-in-a-lifetime event with our customers.”
On that day they’ll also do a giveaway of three of their carvings.
Additionally, on April 13 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Oak & Amethyst, along with Truly Your Healing, will conduct a meditation and sound healing event.
The couple loves the Greenwood area and appreciates how the community has wholeheartedly embraced them.
“We love it here,” says Sarah. “This community is very down to earth and supportive.”
All types of customers love stopping in, from those who adore nature and crystals to those who are looking to relieve stress, alternative healers, and even those who are just beginning to appreciate crystals.
“We welcome everybody,” says Mark. “We want to be a positive beacon of light in the community.”
For more information, call 463-283-2203, visit oakandamethystboutique.com, and find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
