🎬 In the Series:
First Appearance: Season 1, Episode 3 – “They Are Weak, But He Is Strong”
Recurring Location: Seasons 1 and 2
By Episode 3, the Gemstone family’s sprawling empire grows beyond the pulpit and into corporate territory with the introduction of the Gemstone Prayer Center. This location serves as the heart of their ministry’s operations, and it’s portrayed with just the right mix of flash, scale, and awkward modernity.
Filmed at the former Sears building in Citadel Mall, this venue becomes a recurring backdrop for office drama, spiritual consultations, and tense family dynamics. The show transforms the building’s facade with a massive “GEMSTONES” sign that’s prominently featured throughout Seasons 1 and 2. The interior also appears in various scenes, particularly the hallway and entry area that fans will recognize from Jesse and Eli’s power plays and staff meetings.
📍 In Real Life:
The Citadel Mall, located at 2070 Sam Rittenberg Boulevard in Charleston, SC, is a classic enclosed shopping center with a unique place in The Righteous Gemstones universe. Its former Sears department store has been repurposed by the show as the Gemstone Prayer Center, and while filming, the iconic GEMSTONES sign is often left on display—making it a standout photo op for fans.
Inside the mall, especially during regular business hours, you can sometimes catch a glimpse of the actual hallways and interior entry points used in the show. While full access is limited when filming isn’t active, it’s one of the easiest and most accessible Gemstone locations to visit.
📝 Visitor Tip: Plan your visit during mall hours to explore the common areas and potentially peek into the hallways featured on screen. And don’t miss snapping a photo in front of the Prayer Center’s towering sign—it’s a favorite for fans making their pilgrimage.