Sand N Stones Delaware, Nature & Holistic Gift Shop
Sharing a Love of Nature, Stones, and the Spirit of Lewes
After a lifetime of collecting stones and capturing the beauty of the Delmarva region through photography, Sand N Stones is my way of sharing that lifelong passion with others. Located in the heart of historic Lewes, Delaware, my shop is a tribute to nature, creativity, and the local coastal lifestyle.
A Space to Learn, Explore & Connect
At Sand N Stones, I aim to offer more than just beautiful items—I’ve created a space where visitors can connect with the natural world and the charm of the Eastern Shore. Inside the shop, you’ll find a curated collection of books and field guides covering Delaware and Mid-Atlantic wildlife, coastal ecology, geology, and local history—perfect for beachcombers, nature enthusiasts, and curious explorers.
Handcrafted Jewelry Rooted in Nature
I specialize in handcrafted wire-wrapped gemstone jewelry, using sterling silver and gold-filled wire to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether it’s a stone from my personal collection or a special stone or item you bring in, I’m happy to custom-wrap it for you—often while you enjoy your day in Lewes.
While a piece may take only 90 minutes to complete, each design reflects over 25 years of experience, craftsmanship, and passion. My pricing isn’t just about the time it takes—it's about the care, skill, and artistry poured into every wrap.
Local Photography & Fiber Art
Art and creativity run deep in my family. Inspired by my Mother and Father who were hobbyist photographers, and my grandmothers—one was a professional seamstress, the other a devoted knitter and crocheter. I’ve always felt a connection to fiber arts. In recent years, I’ve expanded my creative journey to include handweaving, crafting unique handwoven accessories on my loom. These woven pieces are available in the shop, reflecting the same love of texture, color, and craftsmanship that runs through my jewelry.
In addition to jewelry, I feature my original photography—offered as matted prints and note cards—showcasing the serene beauty of Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware Bay, and the broader Delmarva Peninsula. Each image captures the essence of Mid-Atlantic Coastal Living and "Living the Lewes Life®."
“Mother Nature Does the Artwork—I Just Put a Frame Around It.”®
This simple yet powerful slogan reflects the heart of everything I create. Whether I’m wire-wrapping a radiant gemstone, capturing a breathtaking landscape through my lens, or weaving vibrant fibers into a one-of-a-kind accessory, my work always begins with the beauty that nature provides.
At Sand N Stones, my goal is to honor and elevate the natural world—framing it through handcrafted jewelry, local photography, and handwoven fiber art. Every creation is a tribute to the colors, textures, and stories found in the earth, the sea, and the skies of DelMarVa.
Supporting Wellness & Holistic Living
As a certified doTERRA Essential Oils Wellness Advocate, I’m also passionate about holistic living. I offer education and sales of essential oils and emu oil to help support wellness, balance, and a natural lifestyle in harmony with the Earth.
More Than a Shop—An Experience
At Sand N Stones, you’ll find more than handcrafted gifts—you’ll discover a story, a memory, and a little piece of Delaware to take home with you.
How Michele, handmade jewelry designer got started
Sand N Stones in Lewes, Delaware
About Me
My love for stones began during quiet weekends on my grandparents’ large farm just outside of Baltimore, Maryland. My Aunt Janice—whom I lovingly called A.J.—would pick me up after work, and we’d spend our afternoons exploring the fields and the winding stream near the swimming hole. I was utterly captivated by the beautiful colors and unique shapes of the stones we discovered. We’d fill our pockets with treasures to show my grandparents when we returned to the house, where I’d spend hours playing with them, mesmerized by their natural beauty.
As I grew older, A.J. nurtured my curiosity. She introduced me to books about geology and took me to local rock shops and stone shows. I soon began to identify the stones we collected on the farm, deepening my appreciation for nature's artistry.
When I was nine, A.J. took me on my first airplane trip and bus tour. We explored Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Zion Canyon, Red Creek Canyon, and Yellowstone National Park. While most travelers went shopping, we slipped off our shoes and wandered through rivers and streams, filling our socks with colorful stones and hidden gems. Our finds quickly became the talk of the bus!
Later, while studying Elementary Education, Child Psychology, and Social Work at Davis & Elkins College in West Virginia and Salisbury State in Maryland, my connection to gemstones remained strong. Whether in my pocket or on my desk, I always kept a stone nearby. They brought me balance, comfort, and joy—something I’ve come to learn resonates with many others as well.
After college, I pursued a career helping children, but something was missing. Years later, I met a jewelry artist who created stunning pieces by wrapping stones in sterling silver and gold-filled wire. I was captivated. Although he rarely took on students, he agreed to teach me the delicate art of wire-wrapping—a moment that changed my life forever. From his mentorship, MJB’s Gem Wrap was born.
- “Mother Nature did the artwork—I just put a frame around it.”
For five years, I traveled the East Coast craft show circuit, participating in up to 37 shows a year. Then, during a visit to Lewes, Delaware, in 2005, I came across a charming little shop with a “space available” sign. I instantly knew—it was time to plant roots. That moment marked the beginning of Sand N Stones: Delaware’s Holistic & Nature Shop, formerly Just For You, Unique Gifts.
Today, I find joy in the simpler things: wire-wrapping gemstones, wandering the beaches of Delaware collecting sea glass, sea pottery, shells, and Cape May diamonds (which I lovingly call Delaware Bay Diamonds), and photographing the natural beauty of the Delmarva Peninsula.
I also enjoy exploring gem and gift shows, drawing creative inspiration from nature and community. Beyond stones, I’ve always been drawn to fiber arts. My paternal grandmother was a professional seamstress who tailored men’s suits, while my maternal grandmother spent countless hours knitting and crocheting. They passed their love of fiber down to me.
In recent years, I’ve expanded my creative expression to weaving. You’ll often find me standing behind my loom at home, creating handwoven accessories with all kinds of fibers—pieces I now proudly offer at the shop alongside my jewelry and nature-inspired finds.
When I think of Lewes, I think of Cape Henlopen State Park, its natural beauty, its rich maritime history, and the peaceful rhythm of life here—what I call "Living the Lewes Life®." It’s the perfect home for Sand N Stones, a place where I can honor Mother Nature, share my creative passions, and celebrate the talents of local artisans.