One of the joys of exploring the inner west is stumbling upon niche speciality stores like Mineralism. Whether you identify as a gemstone person or not, this Glebe gem store is worth a visit. Opened in 2015, the shop is choc-a-block with precious stones, minerals, fossils and handmade jewellery gathered from all around the world.

You'd be surprised just how excited the store's owners Jed Underwood and Jessa Lahoud can get when they talk about aquamarine, labradorite and larimar – and it's hard to not feel enthused about rocks yourself after a chat with the passionate owners.

The business partners and 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.