About

About the Instructors

"My career as a jewelry instructor began at the Appalachian Rock Shop in 1994. Teaching here as enabled me to challenge myself and move into new and exciting territory. I love the connection I make with my students as they discover they have the ability to make unique and personal jewelry. My classes are geared for the novice to the advanced student in a relaxing and creative atmosphere. Metal, stone and imagination combine to create a beautiful and uniquely personal experience as we share our love of jewelry making."- Jolan Naleppa

"I began my career working on fine jewelry as a goldsmith. Moving to this area over 20 years ago, I discovered the Appalachian Rock Shop. It was there that I learned about an ancient form of jewelry making called Wire Wrapping. I left my career as a goldsmith to pursue this new- found interest. My love for this form of jewelry making inspired me to teach others to enjoy this wonderful form of art. You too, can enjoy the fascinating world of wire wrapping by attending one of my classes."- Jeanie Anderson

Tom and Leslie Metarko, owners of the Appalachian Rock Shop and Jewelry Emporium, are degreed geologists with professional backgrounds in the oil and gas industry.

The couple purchased the store in 1996 and used their expertise to transform the one-time hobby shop into Western Pennsylvania’s premier source of crystals, minerals, gemstones, fossils, jewelry and related gifts.

Tom & Leslie visit shows like the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show each year where they personally select their vast and assorted inventory. With their extensive network of contacts, they are able to continually bring to their customers what is new and exciting in the world of rocks, minerals and fossils, whether they are rare gemstones from Russia, a newly found mineral vein in Brazil that is wildly popular with jewelry makers, or a newly discovered fossil from Madagascar.

Tom or Leslie are usually available to answer questions and provide information about the items in their shop. Tom, Leslie, and staff, with their decades of expertise, are always ready to personalize your trip to the rock shop and will gladly “dig up” whatever you need.

The Appalachian Rock Shop and Jewelry Emporium is located in Harmony, PA – just a short trip from Pittsburgh on I-79.

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