The Owner
Micah Gilbert is a geologist, paleontologist, and gemologist with a trained eye for meticulously procuring high-quality natural specimens. He received his bachelor’s degree in geology from the University of Pennsylvania, master’s degree in mining and geological engineering from the University of Arizona, and the Graduate Gemologist credential from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Micah is also president of the Paleontological Institute of America (PIA), a Registered Master Valuer, and an Accredited Member of the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) specializing in the valuation of minerals and fossils.
The Founder
Empress Gilbert is a passionate designer and mineral savant with an eye for detail and color. Her love for earthly treasures began in 1982 when she was shown a stunning mineral from Australia, and shortly thereafter, she began collecting minerals of all varieties for her home and to share with friends and family. Over the years, her perseverance and dedication in developing her love would evolve into a home-based business.
The Craftsman
Kory Pappas
THE BUSINESS
THEN
In 2010, Empress and Micah formed Empressive GeoDesigns, Inc and purchased a building in the Dallas Design District. The formation of this company and their newly renovated showroom marked the beginning of their transition from a small home-based business into a notable presence in the art and design industries.
A cornerstone of their operations was the development of versatile design capabilities, which led to the production of diverse custom bases and mountings made of exotic woods, exquisite leathers, high-end acrylics, and polished metals including steel, brass, and bronze. With an enhanced presentation and capacity, they would provide artistically displayed natural specimens to clients.
NOW
In 2019, Micah became president and owner of the company and it was renamed Empressive Earth Gallery. His focus has been to offer a diverse selection of the highest quality of luxury natural décor from reliable sources from all over the world.
Our hand-selected minerals, gem-quality crystals, meteorites and authentic dinosaur fossils are works of art with custom stands made to highlight our specimens’ inherent, striking beauty. The Dallas gallery has a vast collection of specimens, and while we do have small minerals and fossils of exceptional quality, we focus on high-value large pieces that leave an impression.
Over the years, we’ve provided stunning specimens for large-scale commercial projects and private homes all over the world. No matter the scale, Empressive Earth Gallery is committed to providing a top-tier display of natural colors and fine detail to even the most refined eye, and a standard of excellence from start to finish.
ETHICAL SOURCING
We prioritize honesty and building long-term relationships with business partners and clients as we strive to ethically procure minerals/crystals and secure legal documentation and bone maps for our high-value fossils. This means we acquire specimens from miners and suppliers that maintain environmentally conscious operations and follow the trade regulations of their respective countries. Additionally, we comply with CITES, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Customs, AAPS, and state and federal trade laws.
