Origin Story
The Naturalist Desk
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Welcome to the very first Blog entry.
If you’re anything like me, your pockets usually have a bit of grit in the corners from a stray piece of quartz you found on a hike, and your windowsills are currently a "controlled" jungle of propagated succulents.
I’ve spent my life fascinated by the things the Earth just gives us—the geometry of a pyrite cube, the resilience of a pothos vine, the way a well-placed piece of raw amethyst can change the entire energy of a room, and the iridescence of a butterfly wing. But for a long time, that passion stayed in the field or in messy piles on my dining table.
The "Lightbulb" Moment
The idea for The Naturalist Desk didn't come from a boardroom; it came from a frustration.
It came from a desire for a different kind of life. As much as I love the world of geology and the natural sciences, I love being a mom more. I realized that building this business wasn't just about curating natural specimens—it was about freedom. I wanted more time with my daughter, Emma, doing the things we love most: exploring the outdoors, hunting for "treasures" in the dirt, and breathing in the fresh air.
Sourcing the Dream
Starting a business in 2026 is an adventure in logistics. When I decided to move from "hobbyist" to "entrepreneur," I had to figure out how to display, ship, and care for these specimens at scale.
I'll be honest: I started where most of us do—Amazon. I spent weeks testing LED display bases, customizing a banner for our vendor table and display, and trying to find shipping boxes that could protect a fragile desert rose selenite.
Whether you are looking to buy a specimen from my shop or you’re trying to build your own natural sanctuary at home, I want to share those wins with you.
What to Expect Here
This blog isn't just a shop update. It’s a resource. Moving forward, I’ll be diving deep into:
The Science: How minerals form and how plants breathe.
The Setup: Reviews of the best lights, stands, and tools I use daily.
The Journey: The highs and lows of building a "green" business from the ground up.
Most of my supplies and tools I use are purchased through Amazon and I am happy to share with you the tools I found successful for me. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases through affiliate links at no additional cost to you.
