I'm so sad that my first visit to Zanzibar was as they're closing. We're finally working on decorating our home and, as we've been exploring locally for great pieces, Zanzibar was on our list. Even though they're closing they have a variety of pieces from around the world available. We spent some time walking around, and the pieces vary greatly in size and price. If you're looking for statement pieces now is the time to stop in and see if they have that special something for you. You do need to ring the bell to enter and there's a good amount of street parking in the area. read more

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Truly a shop of wonders. Have you ever stumbled upon a shop where when you enter it, it feels bigger on the inside than on the outside? That is what Zanzibar feels like. There are so many exotic arts pieces from across the world gathered here. You can get a small taste of international shopping simply by wandering around here admiring all the beautiful pieces of art, incense, and some more practical things like pretty, sturdy, hand-woven baskets. It's a world bazaar in one place! Be sure to allow yourself time to wander slowly and enjoy. There's so much to see here, it can be overwhelming. Here is a place to find that unique gift for someone who loves international art figures in their home. read more

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Update: I just received a notification that the store is closing after 25 years in business. They will reopen on March 1st with all items 50% off, cash only or cc with 3.5% service fee. Sad news indeed, but thee are the times we live in. Press a buzzer and you will be ushered into not a speakeasy but a very special store that feels more like an art exhibit and stage set that ushers you into another world. All your senses are engaged, from the tinkling of wind chimes, to a tapestry of textures and colors found in beautiful objects of art. The store offers miniature treasures to exquisite full scale sculptures and everything in between. I had read about this import store and followed them online, but nothing can capture the essence of this marvelous retail store unless you enter the space. I came here seeking purple themed treasures for my sibkid's 21st birthday. The owner and a staff member went above and beyond to help me in my quest, and I definitely was inspired at the incredible selection and artistic displays. It was also educational shopping here as I read about the various history and meaning of the objects with informative signage. Your budget can be a few dollars or into the thousands, there is a big range of price points here. High value items are understandably behind glass cases. The displays were breathtaking and were thematically arranged by geographical region/country; Asia, Africa, Mexico/Central and South America, etc. I have not enjoyed a shopping experience this much in years! It reminded me of the locally owned stores I shopped at when I was a kid growing up in a small college town that had tons of independent shops, and how much fun it was. It made me realize how much we have been sold a bill of goods with the chain and big box stores taking over our society. We've been robbed of community, connection, art, and supporting our local economy all for a soulless exchange of "convenience" and "lower prices." Having completed my mission, I was awed when the owner proceeded to carefully and artistically wrap each item and then use custom gift paper (purple, of course!) and ribbon to create the perfect gift box for my sibkid. He included informative write ups of the objects when applicable and told me some additional wonderful stories about the provenance and sourcing of several items. I even got a great local restaurant recommendation! Pleasant shopping experience, great value, and absolute win with my sibkid, who delightedly opened each treasure that evening. I was definitely "winning" as an Auntie thanks to Zanzibar Trading. If you can't make it in person, they have a Facebook live auction every Saturday. But definitely try to go in person. It's a unique, one of a kind store that is a transformative retail experience and provides the perfect place for gift shopping for a loved one or yourself. Go.You deserve it! Free parking in their adjacent lot. Across from the Broadway Target and Golden One credit union. read more

We absolutely love Zanzibar!! We been coming to Zanzibar for over 10 years. Their free trade, and here is 2nd time at the new place. It's so much bigger here in the new location. Yes They have rooms with each place to visit from Japan, China, Africa, Mexico, and Indonesia from all over the world beautiful art, jewelry, statues, to small stones for good luck, and greeting cards. They even do gift wrapping for you too. We are flying back so the they use bubble wrap on my porcelain cup. And gifts to go home You can follow them on Facebook to they sell to on live. They have so prices are moderate to Higher prices They sell online too. The owners are so friendly and knowledgeable and funny too. I Can stay at this store for over a hour just looking before I buy. So much to see. And they have a parking with gate on the side. My Sister and us love coming here when we come in Sacramento a fun trip always here. read more

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I've been going to zanzibar for years and it's such a special experience. The energy was awesome and so was all the pretty crystals and culture. I've bought so many pieces from them and i'm so sad it's going away :( I wish nothing but the best for their business! I hope someday I can find an amazing store just like zanzibar. read more

Zanzibar Trading - Jewelry Near Me - Sacramento, California

Updating my review as a little reminder to come shop here for the people on your list, or maybe yourself just because. That's what I came in here to do this month. Buy myself sparklies, that is. Zanzibar is still here, on Broadway across the street from the Golden One and almost Target. This is my place for jewelry, nobody else compares. I personally love being able to trust my money is going where it should, and the quality of peices here is exactly what I expect. Coming in to look at some rings, and maybe price some gifts for the April birthdays in my life (I will be back soon!), turned into an hour long experience, and I wouldn't have it any other way. It's been so long since I treated myself I couldn't recall what my ring size even is. How sad is that? Never fear, Zanzibar had ring sizers and neverending patience. I was trying to be good, so I left with two rings, sterling silver with peridot (the band design was unlike anything I had seen before, like a flame. Reminded me of something Dornish lol, see picture.) and labradorite (sort of a shimmery grey blue in color with floral band). They cost me $35 each. Ring prices start at $25-$35 and go up from there. Opals start at $150 I think he said. You can ask to see a selection if what you're looking for is not in a case. I didn't even know what labradorite was, but never fear, they have little cards for every gem, rock, and crystal they sell. You can read about what it is, where it comes from, and what it can do, if you're into that sort of thing. That sort of thing is comforting to me, and reminds me of my late bestie and her belief in healing crystals, so I like to keep an open mind. Anyhoo. If the rings need a polish dip, they'll handle that for you too. One day I'll drop some serious money for an opal ring. Their prices are competitive, and if you want to know where any items came from they can tell you. I just love that. There is much more here than shinies. I have also bought crystals, candles, sugar skulls (their Mexican craft selection is my favorite part of the store), and pearl handle wooden salad serving utensils of all things in here over the years. It's a great spot for house warming, wedding, birthday, anniversary, life events in general shopping. Parking is street or curb over here. The door is locked, but you can buzz to be let in. I've never had to wait very long. Unfortunately they have been robbed multiple times in the past couple years and are very careful. Just another reason for me to come here and spend money guilt free. read more

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For years, Zanzibar has been our go-to for gifts. Known for its beautiful selection of fair trade goods, you can find great gifts at every price point. The service is personal and the folks are knowledgeable and friendly. My heart is breaking as the doors are closing in June. Thanks for everything, Guys read more

"Going out of buisness sale" I have always loved this place. I went to the sale and was very saddened to see all the pieces I wanted, they have doubled the price. So it's not 50% off. I've been coming here for years so I know what they were. Not very honest or good feeling to those who have supported you especially because you rant about Amazon and the customers who use them over you. UPDATE:: got home and looked at our bill, not only did they charge me the 3.5 percent card fee that they advertised, but they charged me a 7% fee that I have no understanding of why? I should have only paid 31.85 for the 3.5% So they doubled prices, and charge you 7% extra for their going out of buisness sale? Bad vibes... read more

Zanzibar Trading - Jewelry Near Me - Sacramento, California

What a delightful store indeed. I saw the sidewalk signs and pulled over to check the place out. I've been looking for a mini meditation singing bowl for a while and the selection at Zanzibar is fantastic. They also have a vast collection of artifacts and collectibles from south and Central America as well as various other parts of the world. I was impressed by the authentic Pueblan Talavera pottery and ended up getting a small bowl with lid signed by the artisan. read more

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What a fun store! Lots of stuff to ponder. But what sets this store apart is the customer service. The young man was welcoming and helpful without being pushy . He was so helpful at checkout. He checked each piece before carefully wrapping or boxing it. I will definitely return. There are items from Asia, Africa and Mexico that will interested variety of people. The value seems proportionate to each item and there are price points for all budgets. read more

I went to Zanzibar Trading and what a fun store! They have so many fun trinkets, jewelry and gems to look at! This is a great place to get gifts this season! read more

Its like going to a museum and taking home some of the art. Great hidden gem in Sacramento.

Looking for another gift shop as one of the owners will follow you around like you're stealing. After spending a lot of money here over the years for gifts for myself & others, I'll be choosing to put my money into another establishment in the community that doesn't make you feel like a thief. Two white girls my around my age were treated with pleasantry as I got followed by one of the owners, the not nice one. The guy with the glasses' nice act is a facade. The bald owner is nice. It's absolutely ridiculous for the owners to be white, find artisans from other cultures, ethnicities, & countries that are not their own & pay small amounts for their goods, come back & sell things for 10X the price they paid for AND THEN have the audacity to follow POC around the store & make us feel unwelcome. If that isn't the most white gentrifying tactic then idk what is. Used to love this place, but one of the owners are on crack for thinking I was stealing. Pretty sure his name is Scott, he has a pretty distinct fake smile and persona. Again, the bald gay guy & the other staff are generally nice. It's the older white man with glasses who you have to watch out for as he may racially profile you. read more

It's unfortunate that a place like this has to securely lock their doors and permit you in like a pawn shop. I get it though, there are a lot of valuables in here and tons of homeless wandering about who break into buildings all through Broadway. Aside from that, such a gorgeous place, it's as if you're walking through different parts of the Earth. They don't have every single country, but they have a hint of a few and every room has a cool theme. I have been here on 4 occasions now and they always have new items and many of them are quite affordable. I've purchased many gifts for friends and family members. Beautiful pieces and beautiful artistry. read more

Zanzibar Trading has it's own style of beautiful and unique hand crafted merchandise, art & jewelry from countries spanning the world over. This little place manages to fill its nooks and crannies from top to bottom with specialty items suitable for home decor that can represent anyone's special interest in other cultures and religions from ancient traditions to more modern times. Some things can be pricey, but everything is sold under their "Fair Trade" policy and purchased directly from the artisans who created them. Many "one of a kind" and limited editions are found here. This is what makes this shop uniquely desirable for those who appreciate art and museum quality goods. I have always had a strong, yet eclectic interest in world art, from Asian, Egyptian, African, South American, and East Indian influences. And, I have always wondered why I have been attracted to these specific cultures from countries I have never been to. My conclusion is that maybe I lived at some of these places in a past life! Needless to say, I cherish my purchases from here and admire them often. Now, if only I can remember why! read more

I LOVE MY ADJUSTABLE SILVER CHAIN FROM ITALY!!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!! Sterling silver chain made in Italy and the best part is--it's adjustable AND it's the type of chain that will not snag your hair! I was perusing through the bountiful chains at Zanzibar today and I couldn't decide. I brought ALL of my pendants because I wanted to make sure it matched all of them. Scott, a superhero always saves the day. He goes "Have you seen the adjustable chains we have?" He takes out a 22 inch chain and shows me how to adjust it. The chain not only matched all my pendants but the chain is weighted at the end so it stays in place when it hangs in the back. This chain will look lovely on any backless dress. The chain can be used on its own or with a pendant. I WAS SOLD on this sterling silver Italian made adjustable necklace chain! Scott can always tell what customers need and he once again, displayed that amazing customer service skill today! If you're looking for sterling silver necklace chains, don't dilly-dally! They're not busy so go on down there and get your sterling silver necklace chains! Get them before the price of silver goes up again!! I LOVE ZANZIBAR!!! read more

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I have been a long time Zanzibar customer and while their old location had so many wonderful offerings their new location on Broadway is spectacular! Parking is super easy, and the store is huge! There are so many wonderful things from dish-ware, hand made folk art, jewelry, textiles, and gems and minerals. I personally love to shop for gems and minerals and they have the best selection thats hand picked by the owners. All the staff are super friendly and very knowledgeable about the items in the store. Some staff can tell you about the metaphysical properties and others have a vast knowledge of the geological properties. I feel smarter every time I leave the store. Haha. They have really great prices and everything is handled with care, they even offer free gift wrapping! I highly recommend this store! Zanzibar is a Sacramento treasure! I went to the store during COVID19 and they are limiting the number of guests, encouraging social distancing, requiring face masks and they have hand sanitizer available throughout the store. I could tell they were taking every precaution to ensure public safety. read more

Zanzibar Trading - Crystals: fluorite, quartz, Smokey quartz, black amethyst, - Jewelry Near Me - Sacramento, California

I'm SO very sad to write this review. Let's start with the positive. After years of shopping here and finding some of the most amazing items for our new home nearby and gifts for cherished friends, I won't return again. The staff vibe is SO pervasively uncomfortable and inconsistent. It's overly welcoming to some and a constant less helpful presence with others. It's truly fascinating (in an unfortunate way). It's a global market! You represent the world or so you should at least try a whole lot harder to do so. Someone always seems to be putting an item on a nearby shelf where people are shopping. It's variable and not great to be a part of on any side or to see the intense feeling of need to monitor. It's become increasingly worse over time and it's not aligned with the lovely world-centric offerings. It's palpably unpleasant at this point and I dare say, completely in their awareness based on educated observation..The consistency of oddness over years eliminates any type of "oops, our bad." There was a lovely woman who worked there for quite some time and made it quite a positive experience. Super helpful, warm and could actually remember that we're spending regulars. She showed us new items and our spending went up, up, up. I wish she'd stayed. From the existing staff there are too many instances of weird energy to try to ignore any longer. No thank you to whatever is happening in your collective psyche. We were so sad to read about the robbery that caused the store to almost have to close its doors. Hmm. Sense of gratitude seems to have gone back to missing even though we are apparently putting our lives on the line to shop in this perceived danger zone. Yikes. We are definitely out and won't be recommending patronage. read more

Great place to find unique gifts, decor or clothing. In addition to the larger pieces and clothing, they have incense, smudging bundles, stones/healing stones, fossils, small and large trinkets and decor. You can find something that fits in any budget. I appreciate these items as they are fair trade sourced and support small/ local families along with a local business! If you are interested in the history of items, etc the owners are a plethora of information. I swear the can tell you the town and family, etc about almost every thing here. I wish I was a millionaire so I could buy any and everything I wanted each time I visit. read more

It's like visiting several different countries all within a couple of hours I really feel like it's a unique place in Sacramento it's hard to find such things so please visit and support them because I don't want them to go away read more

I have many different collection peices from zanzibar they are always helpful and full of insight and information My favorite store in Sacramento The owners and staff have always treated us well The selection they have is better then any mineral store ive been in. Worth the trip if you have never been here YOU SHOULD RUN THERE AMAZING STORE if i could give 100 stars i would thank you scott and josh plus staff read more

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Very nice place. Great for gifts. Very reasonable. Street parking only. 2hr free or meters. Usually there is a spot in front. I'm walking distance from downtown. Fun place to browse. Lots of breakables. Will be difficult Ruth a stroller and small kids read more

AWESOME store for gifts, jewelries, home decors, and more gifts... for yourself! I've been to the old location and this new location is a LOT bigger with plenty of parking spots. I purchased few jewelries from their online live sales and been wanting to check out the new store for quite some time. The store is sectioned off beautifully with corresponding music in each room. It gets you in the mood for shopping! The selections are huge and unless you're looking for something in particular it will take you at least a good hour to go through everything. With so many items to choose from, you will not walk out of this store empty-handed. Customer service is great! read more

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Antiquities, Relics, Ancient Totems - It's Like Being Indiana Jones On A Trek SITREP Love this store for just it's sheer inventory of so many objects of beauty, worship & veneration. No matter what you're background in history, religion and appreciation for works of art, you are bound to find fascinating objects here to looks at, talk about and acquire! THE SETUP Located on the corner of 18th & L Street, I've just nonchalantly passed by this store while on the way to Buickhorn Grill, the Rind, Ginger Elizabeth, etc., and all those other delectable places here in "The Handle." But this particular day with Lauren and Melissa, inspired us to duck and take a gander at all the unusual objects and art. VARIETIES OF BEAUTY There is so much dramatic wall art, it would be impossible to describe in complete terms what is available here - you just gotta check out the hearts, the fire, the divine. And there are also wind-chimes that send off graceful notes to the merest touch. Then the necklaces and bracelets in beautiful metals, with gorgeous embedded stones are almost to awesome to pass up - in fact we acquired a bracelet while there! THE LOWDOWN Come for the wild selections in object. Stay for the history lessons by the talented customer service staff. read more

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If you are looking for authentic goods from all over the world, go to Zanzibar. They are renowned for their extensive selection of amazing items. Perfect if you're looking for a gift for someone who loves intricate art. Friendly staff. Convenient location in Broadway in Sacramento. read more

This establishment is unlike any other store I have shopped. It is a fair trade import store with items from Mexico to Japan, from Pakistan to Russia, from all over the world. An amazing gathering of artisan pieces, you'll find one of a kind pieces of art and jewelry, crystals and baskets, pottery and sound bowls, alebrijes and milgros, asian wood carvings, talavera dishes, buddhas, carved dragons, Mexican embroidered wall hangings, Russian nesting dolls, polished stones, beaded bowls, Japanese dolls...I could go on and on and on. The owners and staff know where every piece comes and more than likely have met the artisan. They are extremely knowledgable about the creative process for artisan pieces. They never pressure you into buying anything even if they have spent time with you answering your questions. And if you are like me and don't live close to their store, Zanzibar holds a live sale on Facebook almost every Friday night in which you can request items be shown or just be surprised. It is FUN! I really love this store and the owners/staff. Check them out for truly unique pieces. read more

Such a beautiful store! I could easily spend hours (and lots of money ) here! And the staff are so sweet. Beautiful products, beautiful people, beautiful energy. It's wonderful. read more

Lots of cool stuff here-- my friends and I bought a few cheap but well-made trinkets for each other. Felt like I could spend forever there exploring different region's cultural goods. The young man who helped us was exceedingly polite and lovely, but a few months ago we were in line for Sunh Fish next door and the Zanzibar owner came out all peeved to gripe at us about how we were blocking his lot entrance and how he was paying 2 grand for us to block his joint. I hope his year gets better because it made me and the couple in line behind us laugh. read more

Zanzibar Trading - Pendants - Jewelry Near Me - Sacramento, California

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This place is really cool and the prices are reasonable. Also, the employees are super friendly and knowledgeable.

People who work there are extremely rude and unprofessional. Items they sell are highly overpriced, as they are trying to create an impression that this is an antique store, but in reality, they sell cheap garbage made by "so-called" artisans. Also, they look at every customer as a potential thief. What a joke this place is. read more

Such a neat and awesome store! Staff are very friendly and knowledgeable! Came here for my crystal needs as I was looking for 2 specific crystals, a pink amethyst and citrine! Not too many shops that I have been to carried these two crystals so I was optimistic! Many shops carries heated amethyst that are labeled as citrine. I was looking for natural citrine and they are hard to come by nowadays, although you can find these online, I wanted to see and hold them before purchasing. Not only did I find the most beautiful pink amethyst but they also had a brilliant Smokey citrine! I was ecstatic! I will definitely be back, there are different rooms that showcase different countries and so so many beautiful things! I can spend hours here! It is such a vibe! read more

I was on my way home for a roadtrip and I was on the search for something specific asap. I saw this place on through a simple Yelp search. Location wise, it is not the best part of town. Not a busy place, and there are a lot of homeless. We parked on the street right in front of the store. I had to ring a doorbell, and I didn't wait long until a young man opened it and welcomed me. He asked me if I was looking for anything specific and I told him a carnelian pendant (which I saw on other reviews is sold at this place). He showed me some options and left me to browse. They have a good selection of crystals and fair prices. The young man told me they are imported from different parts of the world. I took some time browsing, but my time was cut pretty short since I was on the road. I only got to check out their crystals and stones, but if I had more time, I definitely would have been in the shop longer. I noticed they had a lot of other cool pretty things and decorations. The young man who let me in helped me check out and offered me a free jade pendant! If you're from the area and haven't heard of this place or are visiting, I recommend checking it out. read more

Zanzibar Trading - carnelian pendant, carnelian tumble, sodalite tumble, jade pendant - Jewelry Near Me - Sacramento, California

Really cool. I go all the time. Super cool stuff from all over the world. The workers are really nice and always ready to tell you about anything in the store. read more

I had an amazing experience here. 3 gentlemen were working and weren't overbearing but available to help if I needed. I was able to purchase some gorgeous ornaments from Michocan, Mexico (mother-in-law's hometown), honey calcite, red quartz and green apatite. All untreated. We will be back to definitely purchase future home decor and gifts. I see a lot of mentions about the pricing. Yes, some things you can buy similar or great knock offs on amazon, Ebay, hell even etsy. But the stand alone quality of this shop is the owner prides himself on ETHICAL, FAIR TRADE sourcing. Even majority of his crystal collection are raw/untreated. And those that have undergone color treatment are CLEARLY marked. I can't tell you how many times friends have brought back gifts from Mexico just to discover they were made in India. I'd rather support a small, local business who in turn supports fair trade and ethical sourcing from artisans around the world. read more

If you want a fascinating, well curated international goods shop, this is the place. Zanzibar moved from its old spot to an expansive, amazing location! There are themed rooms with crafts and art pieces from Africa, China, Asia, South America, and more! The ideas for decorating your home or for gifts are vast, from huge wall hangings to the tiniest geode. Go there for your holiday shopping! read more

My partner and I came to Zanzibar because their store adds kept popping up on my FB feed and we figured "why not!?" The store is beautiful, with many trinkets and specialty items only found in other countries. Tons of space with sections divided by origin. Everything was going well until one of the owners sparked up a very taboo conversation with a customer. The topic was regarding his dealings with the Mexican people too include drug cartels and how difficult it was to do business in Mexico. Even telling the customer it wasn't"safe" to go to Mexico especially now and that's it's so dangerous. I was immediately offended as my Partner is Mexican from Mexico. What's worse is, the owner was speaking out loud, as though not even aware of his other Hispanic customers. I ended up talking to the owner in private and told him how the conversation he had was inappropriate, and he actually had the audacity to tell me that everything he said was the truth! I honestly couldn't believe what I was hearing. Instead of apologizing, he actually was defending himself! (White privilege). Although Zanzibar is a beautiful store, and we really enjoyed shopping there. I cannot excuse the fact that half your store is dedicated to Latin Culture and you're speaking so poorly about the Latin Community. You should be aware of your audience. read more

I must say..... Ive spent thousand$$$ at Zanzibar over the last decade... I planned on spending thousands more... Especially considering I'm blessed enough to have a job, in healthcare, and wanted to support this local business above all others, but I don't think this is the response of any responsible or ethical business owner. I will not be coming back here, nor recommending. read more

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The people who work here are so nice! Love that there's a great variety but not crowded at all. I bought myself these sterling silver earrings, and he put them on this cute silk pouch and in a gift bag. Lots of beautiful rocks and international items. I'll definitely be back! read more

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It was my first time visiting Zanzibar. I already had the Ganesh and some Russian boxes chosen out for purchase within the first five minutes. I was falling in love. The store was empty and quiet. Soon after a clerk and the owner came out, and were pretty assertive very quickly. I chose to ignore how they were peacocking their knowledge like there was no tomorrow, maybe I would be too if I worked around such beautiful things all day. Shortly I realized the info I was being provided wasn't for my own good sake, rather Scott advertising how much he knew. That made me feel unimpressed and suffocated. I think the unfortunate issue is they seem to treat people as if they come in ignorant, and that's just not the case. During Scott's speech he actually unknowingly insulted a corporation I work for, so carefully I placed everything back, thanked him for his time, and now I'm driving to Ology. As goes for his response, thank you for confirming your persistence. Typically when someone responds back, they try to resolve the situation, not elevate it. read more

Employees here suck. I been in a few times, all good vibes. But these people who work here are always watching you as if your going to steal something. Idk if they have a theft problem but this is plain rude. One particular day I was looking at this necklace and couldn't see the price of it. I had to point it to the employee a few times and he still didn't know which one I was talking about. He opened the cage barely, and even after me pointing so many times he still didn't know so I tried to put my hand in to just grab it and he quickly shut it so rudely, like what the hell? Seriously? Makes me what to ask what kind of a shop is this? Do you guys even believe in karma and spirituality? Completely done with this place. read more