Editor’s Letter

Love is in the air this month at Rock & Gem. ere’s just something about Valentine’s Day that’s irresistible, including my married life! On a personal note, I told my husband never to propose to me on Valentine’s Day because it was too obvious. So what did he do? He proposed to me on Valentine’s Day and completely surprised me. I never saw it coming on that day. Now, 23 years, two kids and countless pets later, I’m editing Rock & Gem and getting mushy about Valentine’s Day. It’s funny how life works out!

A special thanks to our Romancing the Stone article writer, L.A. Sokolowski, for thoroughly immersing herself into researching her story about Herkimer diamonds. She forgot to take pictures of herself while digging, but she’s forgiven a er driving an “average four-door sedan up the vertical dirt road climb to the quarry, praying each foot not to bottom out or spin out.” Enjoy this photo of L.A. at the beginning of the day.

Also, a huge thank you to Fred Weisser, of Weisser’s Jewelers, for sharing his passion for Herkimer diamonds with us. Fred personally designed and made the Herkimer diamond ring for our Diamond Dreams giveaway (see pages 26 & 28). is one-ofa-kind ring is perfect for everyday jewelry or as an engagement ring that can be tted with a wedding band. Be sure to enter for your chance to win this fabulous piece.

Good luck!

-Pam