Barry Bridgestock has passed away.

[jstarfireb]

The first few words in the email were something like "I take no pleasure in writing this" and I immediately thought he was shutting down the business due to illness and injury (he recently had been experiencing shoulder issues and trouble breathing if memory serves me). Then I read on and was shocked to hear that he had passed. My heart breaks for his family, losing both their parents in such a short time. Barry was such a talented cutter and great person. I loved chatting with him by email and seeing his personal touches in the newsletters. Recently took a photo of all my Barry stones as a tribute. I feel lucky to have known him, even if only via emails about gemstones.

 

[2Neesers]

This was such sad news to hear. Barry was a friend to so many of us and will be greatly missed.
There have been so many Wednesday nights I have eagerly sat at the computer and hoped to be lucky enough to buy one of Barry’s stones. I always looked forward to hearing from Barry, not just about the stones I had purchased, but also about the weather, or his time growing up in Illinois, or the kittens he was taking care of.. He always had a wonderful story to tell and was so warm and engaging. I feel so fortunate to have been able to collect the stones I have from Barry and will think fondly of him every time I wear them. My heart goes out to his loved ones.

 

[chrono]

This is awful news. I have been away from PS the last few weeks due to work and only saw this. My deepest condolences to the family. I remember his wife's passing and now his. It is a great loss to the community. His prices were more than fair, he runs an honest and no fuss shop. He is always responsive and easy going. He will be greatly missed both as a vendor and great person!

 

[kgizo]

Every transaction came with a personal message from Barry with stories about everything the sourcing the rough, his facet pattern to what the weather was like in Arizona.

So much this. It was such a pleasure to work with him, whether or not I got the stone in question, because he was kind, funny, and generous with his stories.

 

[Burmesedaze]

RIP, Barry. Together with your beloved wife is where we know you would like to be, above all.

I will miss the chats we had over email. The stray cats that you bring in will also miss you.

I am glad that I have your lovely turquoise and a couple of beautifully cut gemstones to remember you by.

 

[jordyonbass]

My heart breaks for his family, losing both their parents in such a short time.

It's an absolutely heartbreaking thing to deal with, my own father lost both of his parents within a six week span. I don't think he's been the same since to be honest.

My most sincere condolences to Barry's Family, this is such sad news. We've lost a huge talent in this little world of ours.

 

[Girl_in_green]

I’m just signing in from a long absence from PS.
Barry’s passing also hit me very hard. I will miss his newsletters, lovely emails, and most of all, friendship. What a special man to have touched so many of our lives. I, too, will treasure the few stones I was able to obtain and will remember him every time I admire his beautiful stones.