The focus at Gemstone is as much on the environment as it is with our equine guests. Gemstone maintains the natural vegetation as well as companion plants appropriate to this high country environment. The abundance of healthy, fresh, clean well water sustains vegetation as well as an excellent source of good tasting water for horses, humans and resident creatures.

Manure generated at Gemstone is used for mulch on the premises and in local gardens. Gemstone uses as minimal chemicals as possible to control pests, utilizing natural predators.

Recycling and proper waste disposal is a constant practice at Gemstone in efforts to respect the environment

Mari was born loving horses. Horses became part of my life at age 10 when she was given her first horse. Shortly thereafter, she began riding with a Western Show Trainer. She was so enthusiastic that others had compassion for her mare and put her on their horses.

Mari rode and showed western horses for a very successful trainer, Lloyd Donnley, 1954-1957. When her trainer moved out of state, she explored the world of driving horses and gated horses. In 1959, she became interested in jumping and was fortunate to ride under the direction of Dr. Manual Artega. Dr. Artega, a Bronze Metal winner in the 1939 Pan American games, was trained by the U.S. Cavalry and coached the U.S. Olympic Polo Team.

After extensive dressage and jump training, Mari showed and trained Jumping and Dressage horses. In 1972, she began riding and training Thoroughbred and Quarter horses for the race track. From 1984 to 1998, Mari owned and operated Calomar Ranch in Temecula. Mari took great pleasure in teaching equine principles to students of all ages, and her students experienced great success performing at shows.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Mari’s education includes course work at Pierce College, UCLA, Cal Poly Pomona; and she has a Bachelor of Science Degree. Mari has attended numerous clinics on riding and animal health care and has also worked closely with Veterinarians.

MEMBERSHIPS AND ASSOCIATIONS
American Horse Shows Association (AHSA) – Life Member
Professional Horseman’s Association (PHA)
California Dressage Society (CDS)
California Thoroughbred Farm Managers Association (CTFMA)
United States Combined Training Association (CTFMA)
United States Equestrian Team Supporter (USET)