One of the joys of exploring the Inner West is stumbling upon niche speciality stores like Mineralism. Whether or not you see yourself as a gemstone person, it's worth a visit. Opened in 2015, the shop is choc-a-block with gemstones, minerals, fossils and unique jewellery gathered from all around the world.

You'd be surprised just how swept up in the excitement of aquamarine, labradorite and larimar you can get – although it's hard to not feel enthused about rocks after a chat with the store's passionate owners, Jed and Jessa.

The business partners and real life couple have direct relationships with many miners and travel the world curating the in-store and online collection. It's a family affair, so expect to see Jessa's parents manning the till, whose knowledge as both jewellers and miners in Lightning Ridge help make Mineralism more than just another store.

Images: Kitti Smallbone