Fire Mountain Gems and Beads stands as an international beacon in Grants Pass, and the jewelry-making supply industry, boasting an extensive catalog of over 100,000 products and serving a vast community of more than 200,000 bead-making artisans worldwide.
Marking its 50th anniversary last year, Fire Mountain Gems and Beads reflects on a journey that began in North Hollywood in 1986. Stuart and Chris, the visionary husband-and-wife duo behind the enterprise, made a pivotal decision to relocate to Cave Junction, Oregon. Their choice to repurpose a vacant grocery store, the former Gibbon’s Market building, as the hub for their mail-order business was fueled not only by practicality but also by a love for the natural beauty of Southern Oregon.
Venturing into a mail-order business in a small rural town posed numerous challenges, including business isolation, workforce shortages, transportation hurdles, and logistical complexities. However, the couple discovered the true gems of the region—its friendly, honest, and sincere people, whose support became integral to the company’s success.
By 2000, the Fire Mountain Gems and Beads family had outgrown its space in Cave Junction, prompting a move to the former Litton Systems building in Grants Pass. As growth continued, the company designed and built the Bead Bunker, a testament to its commitment to innovation and expansion.
Over five decades, Fire Mountain Gems and Beads has evolved from a direct marketing company to a global e-commerce powerhouse at firemountaingems.com. What started as hand-sketched beading instructions has transformed into engaging YouTube videos, yet the commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and freely sharing jewelry-making expertise has remained unwavering.
Beyond business success, Fire Mountain Gems and Beads dedicates itself to giving back to the community through charitable contributions. Actively involved with the Rogue Valley Boys and Girls Club, the company supports fundraising events such as Girlfriends Great Escape and Taste of the Rogue. Additionally, they participate in Rogue Winterfest, contributing to local mental health organizations like Family Solutions, Kairos, and Options for Southern Oregon.
As Fire Mountain Gems and Beads looks forward to the next 50 years, the anticipation is high for continued growth, fostering local community support, nurturing partnerships worldwide, and leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving landscape of jewelry making.
