Johnstown rock shop focuses on metaphysical benefits

Danielle Mallozzi started Momma Earth Movement as a way to help her community and showcase local makers. Photo: Provided.

Did you know rocks have metaphysical properties that can be used to encourage and amplify a desired physical result? This holistic momma discovered the benefits of going natural on every level. Danielle Mallozzi started by making natural body butters, then grew to essential oils and lava rocks to make diffusing jewelry into Momma Earth Movement.

Mallozzi said that as they grow, they will embody the name of the shop and be a movement in the community. “A little over a year ago we opened our physical store. We are a rock shop, but also feature our handmade jewelry and natural products as well as showcasing other local artists,” she said.

The shop features rocks and crystals in addition to handmade jewelry and local art. Photo: Provided.

Startup Alleghenies coach Blake Fleegle has helped navigate the nuances of opening a brick-and-mortar store. “Blake is always available to help answer questions. It has been so great to have him available to talk through anything that might come up,” Mallozzi said.

“In addition to her shop, Danielle also goes to markets selling her wares and sharing her experiences – she could talk all day about the benefits of the rocks and crystals she sells.  That devotion to education is what really sets her business apart,” Fleegle said.

Mazzolli has a growth mindset and is forward looking to what her shop can bring to the community. “As we grow and people learn that we are here, we want this to really be a place for the community. We want to expand into offering Reiki sessions and vision board planning. For us it is our love for helping others that really drives us,” she shared.

“Our love for helping others that really drives us,” she said. Photo: Provided.

Momma might be in the name, but this is a family affair. Mazzolli’s husband is now a full-time artist at the shop. “I wanted him to leave his field. He was a mechanic and worked around so many chemicals and smells that I knew weren’t good for his health. He is an incredible artist and I have loved watching him develop and hone his talents. His wire-wrapped jewelry is unique and adds such beauty to our pieces,” she said.

One of Mallozzi’s signature pieces is the hand-strung mala. “The mala is a beautiful piece. The meditation beads include 108 individual beads that are specifically selected and strung together to make a necklace,” she said. “Making them has really become my own type of meditation.”

When she was first asked to create meditation beads it pushed her out of her comfort zone. “I had to do a lot of research to learn how to make them. But you don’t grow when you are comfortable, so I accepted the challenge. We use that in all aspects of our business, sometimes you just have to take a chance and do it,” Mallozzi said.

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.