FAQs
🌱 Product & Ingredient Questions
Q: What exactly is in a Shore & Stem Beverage Gem? A: Our botanical gems are dissolving flavor-enhanced cubes made to accompany your favorite beverages (tea, mocktails, cocktails, champagnes, sweet cold teas, lemonade, sangria, mulled wine and more). We handcraft our gems with real, recognizable ingredients: pure cane sugar, freeze-dried fruits, and fresh-dried herbs (like lemon balm, rosemary, and lavender). We never use artificial flavors, food coloring, or preservatives. You can actually see the beautiful fruit specks and crushed leaves or flowers right in the cube! Explore our flavor line-up.
Q: How much is in one gem? A: Each of our handcrafted botanical beverage gems is equivalent to approximately one to two teaspoons. Our Blueberry Sapphire Gems are the only Gems made strictly in larger gem sized at 2 teaspoons each.
Q: How long do the gems last, and how should I store them? A: Because we use real fruit and herbs, our gems are best enjoyed within 6 months for peak flavor and vibrant color. To keep them fresh, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Store them in an airtight container when not in use.
Q: Are your beverage gems vegan and gluten-free?
A: Yes! Our gems are made entirely from cane sugar, fruits, and herbal botanicals, making them naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Q: What do beverage gems taste like? A:
Strawberry & Lemon Balm Gems taste bright and fresh. We describe the flavor as “sunny”.
Raspberry & Rosemary Gems taste “woodsey” from the piney essence of Rosemary but this gem leads with sweet, ripe raspberry flavor.
Lime & Lavender Gems are tangy green citrusy thanks to the fresh dried lime rind but the aromatic lavender adds a slightly flowery flavor.
Citrus Ginger Gems are something special with an equal share of aromatics from red grapefruit and orange for sweet tang, alongside the warmth of mildly spicy ginger.
Pineapple Gems taste like a hint of grilled pineapple. We use baked dried pineapple rather than plain dehydrated pineapple. We’ve tried both, and baked dried pineapple simply adds warmer golden pineapple flavor.
🥂 Usage & Recipe Questions
Q: How do I use the gems in hot tea? A: Drop one or two gems into your favorite hot beverage and stir. The hot water will dissolve the gem and gently steep the real fruit and herbs, releasing a beautiful, natural flavor and aroma into your cup.
Q: Do the gems dissolve in cold drinks, like champagne, cocktails, mocktails, seltzer, cold tea or lemonade ? A: Yes, but they dissolve much slower in cold liquids. Dropping a botanical gem into a glass of prosecco or a spritz creates a beautiful, bubbling visual experience as the fruit and herbs slowly release. Pro-tip for instant flavor: If you want the flavor immediately, place the gem in your glass, add a tiny splash of warm water to muddle (crush) it into a syrup, and then top with your cold beverage ingredients.
Q: Will there be pieces of fruit and herbs floating in my drink? A: Yes! Because we use genuine "garden-to-glass" ingredients, you will see gorgeous bits of real strawberry, rosemary, or lemon balm floating in your drink once the sugar dissolves. It creates a stunning, elevated visual perfect for entertaining.
Q: Does the packaging include instructions for the gift recipient? A: Yes, a Botanical Bar Cart cocktail recipe card is included in every order. It reassures the gift-giver that the recipient won't be confused about how to use them.
Q: Why do these gems make great gifts? A: Shore and Stem Gems are a unique gift idea for someone who has everything, for adventurous foodies, for friends or family who love to entertain, for tea lovers, and mixologists alike. We offer gift boxed samplers to appeal to all of those on your gift list. Or, add gems to a customized gift basket for a one-of-kind personalized and thoughtful present.
📦 Shipping, Bulk & Event Orders
Q: Do you ship during hot weather? A: Yes! Sugar and dried fruit holds up wonderfully in the heat, so melting during transit isn't an issue. However, high humidity can make the gems a bit fragile or sticky, so we package them carefully with desiccant packs to absorb moisture (do not ingest) to ensure they arrive perfectly intact.
Q: Do you offer bulk orders for wedding favors, bridal showers, or tea parties? A: Absolutely. Our botanical gems are popular for mimosa bars, garden weddings, and experiential favors. We offer tiered quantities, customized labeling and bulk sets. Please reach out to us via our Contact Page to discuss your event's specific needs!
Q: Do you offer custom flavors for special events? A: We love creating bespoke "garden-to-glass" moments. If you have a specific flavor profile in mind for a large event or corporate gift, please send us a message! Custom orders require a minimum quantity and advance notice, so we recommend reaching out at least 4–6 weeks before your event.