BETHLEHEM, Pa. — The Gemeral Store, a new crystal and mineral shop opening Saturday at 707 North New St. in Bethlehem, offers more than just glittering stones — it showcases a lifelong passion and a community-centered experience.
Ted Chiaparas owns the store, which features a curated collection of crystals and minerals from around the world, ranging from small, affordable tumbled stones to high-end collector specimens.
“We try to make sure we carry something for everyone,” Chiaparas said. “From $4 tumbles to large carved and polished minerals, we want to make this accessible to anyone who’s curious.”
In addition to crystals, the store also carries ethically sourced and mounted butterflies and “Kattywampels” — mixed-media pieces created with crushed gemstones, squid ink, fluorescent minerals, and locally significant materials like Bethlehem Steel shavings, Martin Guitar picks, and Yuengling beer.
The art is made in collaboration with Alaska-based artist Steve Cross and glows under UV light.
Chiaparas’s passion for crystals began early. As children, he and his brother spent more time in a crystal shop next to their parents’ bakery than behind the counter.
That early fascination turned into a business during the COVID-19 pandemic, starting with vendor booths at events like Musikfest, the Philadelphia Flower Show, and Christkindlmarkt.
The decision to open a permanent location was driven by a desire to stay closer to home, especially after welcoming a new baby last year.
“It’s hard doing 15 shows a year with a one-year-old,” he said. “We wanted to put down roots.”
Chiaparas said the storefront will serve as a retail space for learning and exploration.
“Our slogan is ‘Explore With Us,’” he said. “Every mineral is different, and we’re always discovering something new. We hope people walk away learning something every time they visit.”
The store’s grand opening is Saturday, June 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Chiaparas hopes it will become a welcoming space for collectors, the crystal-curious, and local families.
“There’s really no barrier to entry,” he said. “Whether you’re a kid picking up your first stone or a serious collector, we’ve got something here for you.”