For as long as she can remember, beautiful jewelry has told a story. For the owner of E. Bendel Jewelry & Appraisals, that fascination grew into a lifelong passion that has taken Erin from designing handmade pieces for local boutiques to becoming one of the region’s trusted experts in jewelry appraisal and estate jewelry.

Her journey began in 2005, when she launched her first jewelry company, creating sterling silver, vermeil, and gemstone beaded pieces. Erin's designs were sold in boutiques around Tulsa, giving her an early glimpse into the world of fine jewelry and entrepreneurship But curiosity quickly led her deeper into the craft.

In 2006, Erin attended the bench jewelry program at Tulsa Technology Center, where she studied gemology and metalsmithing. There, students were taught to create jewelry completely from scratch which was an experience that continues to shape the way she approaches her work today. “That education gave me a much better understanding of how jewelry is made,” she explains. “It helps me evaluate pieces not just from the outside, but from the perspective of craftsmanship and construction.”

From 2009 through 2021, Erin built her experience in fine jewelry retail sales, working with several respected local jewelry stores. Along the way, she gained valuable exposure to renowned jewelry designers, watch brands, and a variety of customer needs.

In 2012, she earned her Graduate Gemologist degree from the Gemological Institute of America, one of the most respected credentials in the industry. Nearly a decade later, she launched E. Bendel Jewelry & Appraisals, LLC in 2021, specializing in professional jewelry appraisals. Erin also became a Certified Member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, a distinction that requires extensive education, testing, and ongoing recertification.

Last year, her business expanded again as she began buying, selling, and consigning antique, vintage, and estate jewelry which is a growing part of the business she hopes to continue building.

In an industry where sentiment and value often go hand in hand, Erin believes trust is everything. “In the jewelry industry, trust is a key component,” she says. “I believe in transparency and honesty.”

Every day brings something different into her office, which is part of what keeps the work exciting. “I love seeing unique jewelry come in and learning the history behind the pieces,” she says.

Some standout moments have included appraising an antique tiara and a large rare Paraiba tourmaline, her favorite gemstone. Through word of mouth, her reputation has spread well beyond Tulsa, bringing clients from surrounding states.

Her expertise also comes with some fascinating behind-the-scenes details. During appraisals, even the smallest diamonds are carefully counted and measured under a microscope using a millimeter gauge. And to maintain her certification through NAJA, she must pass the notoriously difficult Munsell 100 Hue Color Test every five years. She proudly scored “superior” on her first attempt.

Maple Ridge holds a special place in Erin's heart. She grew up in the neighborhood on 26th Place, near the river trails. “I loved biking the trails, walking the dogs, and being surrounded by all of the beautiful historic homes,” she says.

Today, she and her husband continue to give back by supporting multiple charitable foundations.

Her advice to Maple Ridge residents? Don’t underestimate what may be tucked away in your jewelry box. “I always recommend having jewelry appraised before selling or getting rid of it, so you know exactly what you have,” she says. “And have your jewelry professionally checked and cleaned twice a year. Gold is soft, and once prongs start to wear away, you are more vulnerable to losing a gemstone out of your setting.”

With a foundation built on education, integrity, and genuine love for the stories behind each piece, Erin's future looks as brilliant as the treasures she helps preserve.