Meet Our Experts

Judy Sellars ― Sales Associate

Judy Sellars has over 20 years of experience in the jewelry business.  In 2000, she joined the E. R. Sawyer Jewelers team and has earned the honor of being named an American Gem Society Certified Sales Associate.  Judy stays current by attending industry courses and training including the American Gem Society Associate Courses, Huskins Courses and Hearts on Fire® University.  In her spare
time, Judy enjoys painting and sculpting.

Starla Morton ― Sales Associate

Starla Morton began her jewelry career in 1997.  After working for a variety of jewelry stores including: Gold Bloom Jewelers, the Vault Gallery, Davidson & Licht, and Zales, Starla joined E. R. Sawyer Jewelers in 2003.  Throughout her career, she has held several management positions.  She is familiar with over 100 industry designers and techniques, custom design, Matrix 3D design, and has an art background.  Starla is also an Accredited Jewelry Professional through American Gem Society and Gemological Institute of America.  She is currently enrolled in Gemological Institute of America courses and upon completion will become a Graduate Gemologist.  And lastly, Starla’s claim to fame is that she once designed a ring for Princess Diana’s brother.

Michael Tovani ― Sales Associate

Returning recently to her Sonoma County roots, Michael Tovani has 13 years of experience in the jewelry business.  Michael worked for Fred Meyers most of those years.  She started out in sales, then moved up to management.  For the last 6 years with them, she became a regional restructuring manager.  In 2009, she joined E.R. Sawyer Jewelers as a Sales Associate.  Michael earned her Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Communications and is working toward her Masters Degree.

Nate Murrin ― Quality Control Foreman & Technology Manager

Nate Murrin joined E.R. Sawyer Jewelers in 2009 as Quality Control Foreman & Technology Manager.  Prior to joining the E. R. Sawyer Jewelers team, he worked as a draftsman for a local architectural firm.  He attended Gemvision Training for Digital Goldsmith and is certified in Adobe Photoshop.  Nate earned a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Architecture at UC Berkeley and is an Eagle Scout.

Patricia Rickard ― Certified Gemologist Appraiser & Fellow of the Gemological Association of Great Britain

Patricia Rickard is a Certified Gemologist Appraiser & Fellow of the Gemological Association of Great Britain.  With over 25 years in the gem and jewelry trade, her career encompasses retail design and appraisal, management of a wholesale gemstone operation, and was an independent gem dealer and appraiser.  Continuing education is a priority for Patricia and she recently earned the prestigious Certified Gemologist Appraiser accreditation, a distinction held by only 400 American Gem Society Jewelers in North America.  This is the highest level of achievement in the jewelry industry.

Her professional affiliations include her involvement as an American Gem Trade Association exhibitor at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show for the past 22 years, attendance at the Gemological Institute of America Symposium and numerous American Gem Society conclaves. Patricia is a member of the Gemological Institute of America alumni association, and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts as well as Metalsmithing.

Urbano Mogollan ― Lead Goldsmith

With 12 years of experience in the jewelry industry, Urbano Mogollan has earned the designation of Lead Goldsmith. He is a Certified Hearts on Fire® Service Technician, Certified Watch Technician, Certified Jeweler of American Bench Jeweler Technician, Laser Welding Specialist, and creates custom waxes for custom jewelry.  Urbano believe in continuing education and frequently attends training on new techniques and skills.  He takes a leadership role and encourages the other members of the team to do likewise.

Bravilio Espinoza ― Goldsmith

Braulio Espinoza has more than 16 years of experience in the jewelry business. He is a Goldsmith, Inlay Specialist, Laser Welding Specialist, Setting Specialist, and specializes as a Watch Technician. Like his co-workers, Braulio attends on-going training on new techniques and skills.

Israel Martinez ― Goldsmith & Watch Technician

Having worked in the jewelry trade for 6 years, Israel Martinez has earned the titles of Goldsmith, Certified Watch Technician, Engraving Specialist, and Laser Welding Specialist.  Regularly attending training on new techniques and skills keeps Israel at the top of his game.