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The Rock Warehouse: wholesale to the trade since 1987

ABOUT US

Image of owners, Janet and Steve Applebaum

The Rock Warehouse. We move mountains for our customers.
Moving rocks for 27 years!


In 1987, Steve Applebaum left his former careers as a real estate broker, geologist with Phelps Dodge, and teacher to embark on a new adventure.  He established a business under the name of Desert Gems, located in the Denver metro area.  In the first years, the business consisted of 15 shows more or less per year, plus sales to retail businesses in the neighboring areas.

He was soon joined by Janet, who left her job as a French teacher in the Boulder school district to take the plunge into self employment. In 1991, the Denver retail store, Denver Gems, was opened, and this became Janet's main area of responsibility. The store grew to become the Denver metro area's largest bead, rock and mineral shop.

In April of 2008, Desert Gems was sold to very well qualified owners who have added to the merchandise in an impressive way. We suggest that you visit this store if you're ever in Lakewood, Colorado.

Our new name as of April 2008 is The Rock Warehouse. The business continues to be a leader in supplying rock and gift shops, show dealers, craftsmen, and rockhounds in the Southwest and nationally. We hope to meet you soon at one of the shows featured in the site - or better yet in our Lakewood warehouse.

Brazil Photos
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