About Me
Hi, I'm Crystal Cordova - a Rockhound, creative, community builder, and Arizona explorer with a passion for finding beauty in the natural world and sharing it with others.
My journey has not always been easy. I live with several chronic illnesses, and those experiences have shaped the way I see the world, the way I connect with others, and the purpose behind much of what I do. Rockhounding, creativity, and time in nature have become more than hobbies for me - they are sources of strength, healing, joy and connection. Through my adventures, my handmade creations, and the communities I build, I hope to encourage others who may be facing invisible battles of their own. I believe that even when life is challenging, we can still find beauty, purpose, and moments worth celebrating.
My Story
I've always been drawn to the outdoors, creativity, and the beauty of natural things. Living in Arizona has given me the opportunity to explore incredible desert landscapes, rugged trails, scenic mountains, and rockhounding locations filled with unique minerals, crystals, fossils and stones. Over time, rockhounding became more than just searching for treasures in the desert. It became a way for me to reconnect with myself, spend time in nature, build confidence, and find peace while navigating the realities of chronic illness. Because many chronic illnesses are invisible, I also care deeply about bringing awareness to what people may be going through behind the scenes. Someone can look strong, capable, and happy while still managing pain, fatigue, limitations or health challenges that others cannot see. Part of my mission is to help create more compassion, understanding, and encouragement for people living with chronic conditions. I often share parts of my journey on my personal Facebook Page which can be found by clicking here.
Community & Connection
I believe rockhounding is better when it brings people together. I'm proud to help create welcoming spaces where women can learn, explore, build confidence, and enjoy Arizona's outdoors in a safe and supportive community. That's why I started the Arizona Women Rockhounds Facebook Group. Click here to join!
Giving Back
One of my biggest goals is to use rocks, crystals, minerals and fossils to bring joy to others. Through my Facebook Group Rock With Purpose, I love finding ways to give back - whether that means donating specimens, supporting classrooms, encouraging kids, helping others learn, or simply sharing something beautiful with someone who needs a smile. Join us to help spread the joy!
Handmade Creations
Through my creative work with Philauty Designs, I turn natural stones and minerals into meaningful handmade pieces. I enjoy working with rocks, crystals, minerals, slabs, cabochons, and wire-wrapped jewelry. Each piece is inspired by nature and created with care, purpose, and passion. All proceeds from my sales help fund my passion! Click to shop here.
Helpful Information
One thing I’ve learned through rockhounding is that the adventure doesn’t end when you find the rock — sometimes that’s just the beginning.
Whether you’re cutting, polishing, shaping, or turning your finds into jewelry or display pieces, lapidary supplies can add up fast. Since I know many of you are working on your own projects too, I wanted to share some discounts that may help.
Use code AZROCKHOUND for 10% off replacement saw blades and lapidary supplies at Hi-Tech Diamond, or shop directly through this link https://hitechdiamond.com/discount/AZROCKHOUND.
Just a quick note: the code does not apply to machines, repairs, or gift cards.
You can also use code AZROCKHOUND for 10% off lapidary supplies from CabKing, or shop directly through this link
https://cabking.myshopify.com/discount/azrockhound
Not valid on machines.
I do receive a small commission if you use the code or link.