NEWS

Heart of Stone now in the heart of Newcomerstown

Kristie Wilkin
Times-Reporter correspondent
Lisa Ickes is excited about the Heart of Stone store in Newcomerstown.
Many colorful and unique items can be found at the Heart of Stone.

Business: Heart of Stone

Owners: Lisa and Scott Ickes

Location: 209 W. Main Street, Newcomerstown

Hours:  Sunday closed; Monday and Tuesday – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wednesday closed; Thursday, Friday, Saturday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Facebook: Heart of Stone

Phone: 740-492-4177

Services: We sell wire wrapped jewelry, crystals, fossils, flint, and gift items made of the elements we carry at Heart of Stone. In addition, there is a portion of our store geared for students to find neat rocks and fossils for science class or projects. Further stock includes gemstone decor, Trees of Life, Himalayan salt lamps and beautiful pieces perfect for gift giving, as well as an attractive line suitable for office or home displays. Supplies are available for flint knapping.  All jewelry is made by owner Lisa Ickes.

Lisa, please tell us how Heart of Stone came about?

“We started out several years ago setting up both at Farmer’s Markets and Flea Markets selling our crystals. As our business grew and expanded with more customers and items, we knew we wanted to have our own storefront. Unfortunately, COVID-19 delayed our plans for a few years. Scott and I recently decided the time was right to start looking for our perfect location. Interestingly enough, the name for our business came from a piece of flint I was lucky to find. It has a heart shape agate that formed inside of the flint. We are from West Lafayette, but felt Newcomerstown was the perfect community to open Heart of Stone. As our family recently drove down Main Street in the village, we noticed a space was advertised for rent in between the Feed Barn and Now & Then Guns & Stuff. We were able to secure the space, and Heart of Stone officially opened on Monday, June 6.”

How did you get interested in stones, flint, crystals, and fossils?

“I attended a rock auction that showcased interesting and high-quality stones. I began researching and collecting the different minerals and crystals from around the world. As I learned about the stones, crystals, and fossils, I purchased more of each, and our collection evolved into the treasures we offer today.

"The flint we have at Heart of Stone is Ohio vanport flint that I enjoy digging for myself at Flint Ridge, located near Heath. They are famous for having colorful and patterned flint.  If you go there, you might find all colors of the rainbow and more. This is one of the hobbies we love doing as often as we can make the trip. Scott and I have been married for 11 years, and we have an amazing son, Adam.  All three of our interests go hand in hand with the business. We love rock hounding, enjoying nature and spending time together as a family.”

Scott, tell us a little bit about crystals and stones.     

“Lisa and I have studied crystals and stones for many years, and just like everything else in the universe, crystals vibrate at a specific frequency. These vibrations power and support energy just like phones, computers, radios, watches and more. You have probably heard about certain crystals affecting our own electro-magnetic energy fields just like they affect the energy in powering your watch. Crystals are not only fascinating to look at and study, but are a testament of beauty and nature, as well as becoming increasingly popular. Some people look to crystals for healing or energy of one kind or another. 

"For example, amethyst is not only gorgeous, but it is one of the more popular crystals and is thought to awaken you to higher wisdom. It is also suggested being surrounded by amethyst is good for stress relief. The vibrant orange carnelian is a stone that is known for perking you up and electrifying your mind with ideas and ambitions. And then we explore the onyx a deep and mysterious stone. It is a darker crystal known for stirring your inner confidence and helping you to find a healthier balance between humility and self-esteem. An all-time favorite is the rose quartz a symbol of romance, the love of family, of one’s career and life itself. There are several more to explore with similar beliefs attached to them. I recommend if you are a newcomer to the world of crystals you begin by choosing a stone to which you are drawn.”

How do you feel about the Newcomerstown Main Street vibe and the community?

“The people of Newcomerstown have been supportive of Heart of Stone already. Lisa and I felt very a warm welcome to the village and Main Street as we have been visited by Mayor Pat Cadle and the Chamber of Commerce. It was very dear of them to stop in and wish us well. Too, we have already been blessed with some amazing customers, and hope to meet even more. Newcomerstown is a great community, and we look forward to years of being a part of the Main Street business area. We were open in time to participate in the Second Saturday event held a few weekends ago and will also be open for the Cy Young Festival this weekend.”

Lisa, what would you like to highlight for us?

“Scott, Adam, and I feel fortunate and thankful to finally be able to realize our dream of a storefront on Main Street in Newcomerstown. Our inventory includes wire wrapped jewelry, crystals, fossils, flint, and gift items made from elements we carry at Heart of Stone. In addition, there is a portion of our store geared for students to find neat rocks and fossils for science class. Further stock includes gemstone decor, Trees of Life, Himalayan salt lamps, and beautiful pieces perfect for gift giving, as well as attractive pieces for office and home displays. Supplies are available for flint knapping. All jewelry is made by me, and we have a wide selection.

"We would love to talk to you more about the various stones, be that shop you pick up a unique gift for a friend or family member, assist you in finding that beautiful home décor piece, as well as being a source for your flint napping supplies or assist you and your child in finding the perfect accessory for their science fair project. Please stop in and see us soon.”