Ken's Minerals & Trading Post — Local services in Custer

This is a rock store that has a nice selection of rocks, fossils and minerals located right by Custer. They've got a good selection and decent prices, as well as panning for gems that young kids will enjoy. The reason for the low review is the cashier. I never caught her name, but she was middle aged with blondish greyish hair. We arrived half an hour before they closed so we could be in and out and have enough time to browse around before they closed. Before we even got inside the cashier came outside and rudely told us that they were closing in fifteen minutes. The sign said they were open and going off their sign they weren't closing for another half hour. They had some cool stuff inside, including several different kinds of quartz, fluorite, and large amethysts that make great decorations if your a geology enthusiast. Larger specimens of Amethysts were around a grand, give or take some depending on the specific stone and its rarity, which is a pretty good deal based on what I've seen. I bought a few kinds of quartz, plus some fluorite and some other odds and ends. The cashier was rude to me the entire time, and made sure to frequently remind me that they were closing soon, even though the sign outside and the open sign said otherwise. Finally I checked out (twenty minutes before they were supposed to close). The cashier immediately started talking about the previous customers, saying they stayed for too long, even though they weren't closing and the couple weren't doing anything remotely bothersome. While she was swiping my card she literally said "at least they spent a ton of money" Like I said, they had no reason to be treated like this as they weren't doing anything to inconvenience anyone. Overall I'd say to pick a different rock store if you value polite and...

This is definitely the best rock shop in Custer. This isn’t just a rock shop, the owners personal rock collection is on full display and it is INCREDIBLE. Not only are the prices great, but the long local history is even better. I had the pleasure of getting to meet the owner and his son and be able to chat with them about the history of the shop and their rock collections. The owner spends the winter making silver jewelry with local agate gems and they are absolutely beautiful and the price isn’t bad. I could justify the purchase because of the awesome story behind the stone and craftsmanship of the ring.

If you happen to meet the owner or any of his sons definitely ask them about their rockhounding experiences. They had some great stories from...

The absolute best rock store Ive probably ever been to. I spent so much time in there. I can’t wait to go back unfortunately I had to leave my stuff there till the morning, but I’ve been eyeing that store since January the staff member working today I didn’t catch her name. She’s super sweet and definitely knowledgeable and if she doesn’t know, she’s gonna find out for you. Definitely a good vibe honestly just because of her customer service I would come back, but I’m not gonna lie that’s rock heaven for me🫶🏻😆 definitely get a five stars from Me. I highly highly suggest you stop at that store. If you love rocks you definitely will not be...