My story, carved in stone and wood
Discover the journey behind Rocks on Wood, a tale of natural wonder, scientific curiosity, and handcrafted beauty. Learn about the passion that drives me to bring unique geological art into your home.
The unexpected discovery
My name is Dan Ralston, and I reside in Georgia, VT. My journey into rock collecting began in 2018 when I stumbled upon a remarkable four-foot-long, 300-pound rock in the stream behind my house. Its unusual nature immediately captivated me, and I was determined to place it in my garden. This initial intrigue ignited a deeper curiosity, prompting me to seek more information.
A journey into geology
I sent pictures of my find to the State Geologist and the UVM Geology Department. Their detailed response astounded me: the stone had formed 500 million years ago from sediments and rock fragments deposited at the base of an undersea cliff on the edge of a supercontinent near the equator. This incredible history drove me to find companions for my garden.
From hobby to handcrafted art
Soon, I was discovering all sorts of interesting rocks, and my gardens were rapidly filling. Looking for a way to display my smaller finds inside without looking like a pile of rocks, I discovered the ancient art of viewing stones. I was intrigued with the interplay between stone and wood and began "experimenting" with different designs, finishes, wood and types of stones. My goal is to find stones that are interesting and have a story to tell and create a simple and elegant base that complements the stone.
"The natural world is an endless source of wonder, and I am driven to share its ancient beauty through each unique piece."
Dan Ralston, Rocks on Wood