HISTORY
Talisman Jewelers began in 1973 when Toby Pomeroy opened a tiny jewelry store near Oregon State University campus, crafting jewelry of his own designs. Over the years, Talisman Jewelers established a reputation for outstanding artistry and craftsmanship, exceptional quality and extraordinary service.
Talisman Jewelers outgrew its small quarters, and in 1981 moved to its present location on Madison Avenue in downtown Corvallis.
A turning point came in 1993. Bob Conner and Danielle Bennett, two long-time employees, formed a partnership and purchased Talisman Jewelers. Bob, a goldsmith for over 20 years, is now principle goldsmith and designer. Danielle, sales consultant and manager, has been with Talisman Jewelers for over eight years.
For the last twenty-five years right up to today, Talisman Jewelers has been a designer goldsmith shop, which means we hand craft jewelry of our own—or your own—design right here on the premises.
In addition to custom jewelry design, we offer designer jewelry from around the world as a complement to our own original designs.
We also offer Ideal-cut diamonds and the new EightStar Diamond. If you're interested in colored gemstones, we have an extensive loose gem collection. We also offer a wide range of services, including repairs, restringing, and appraisals.
Our pledge to you is to provide outstanding quality, value, and service. It's been the secret of our success for the last quarter of a century; it's a secret we intend to "keep" for the next quarter century.
We invite you find out what our tradition of excellence is all about. Visit us in Corvallis or continue to explore our website.
MEET THE STAFF
Bob Conner, Owner, Goldsmith, Designer
Bob Conner has been at the jeweler's bench for more than twenty years. A third generation jeweler, Bob apprenticed for five years at Zell Bros. in Portland, Oregon, working there as a goldsmith until Zell Bros. eliminated in-house production. In 1986 he came to Talisman Jewelers where he further refined his goldsmithing and design skills. In 1993, along with Danielle Bennett, Bob became an owner of Talisman Jewelers. As Talisman Jewelers's primary designer and goldsmith, Bob brings great experience, skill and craftsmanship to every project.
Danielle Bennett, Owner, Manager
With more than 12 years of jewelry experience, Danielle Bennett is well qualified to assist you in your quest for beautiful, finely crafted jewelry. Purchasing Talisman Jewelers in 1993 with Bob Conner only strengthened her commitment to providing you with the best in quality, value, and service. Besides managing the business side of Talisman Jewelers, Danielle, also manages to have time for her two sweet twin boys.
Barbara Waters, Wax Artist
Barbara Waters began her love affair with wax when she took a Jewelry Waxing class at Corvallis High School. From graduation, she came to work at Talisman Jewelers where she gained experience and skill as a wax artist. Now, twenty years later, Barbara is one of the finest wax artists in the Northwest with an enormous talent for perfecting in wax the most exquisite details.
Wayne Rackham, Goldsmith
Wayne Rackham brings his more than twenty years of experience as a goldsmith to Talisman Jewelers. Repairs and jewelry manufacture are his specialties. For Wayne, the best part of being a jeweler, besides the dirty hands, is that repairing someone's treasure or making a new piece of jewelry adds to the joy in someone's life.
Linda Strametz
Linda Strametz began her career at Talisman Jewelers in 1990 as a wax artist before switching to assisting customers. Linda's background and knowledge of the intricacies involved in creating custom jewelry will serve you well as she helps you explore the possibilities for your own jewelry design.
Robin Smiley
Robin Smiley brings to Talisman Jewelers more than 13 years of experience in jewelry sales and management, and a deep appreciation of fine jewelry. She's committed to providing you with information on the various aspects of jewelry making and purchasing to ensure educated decision-making.
Sue Frisbie, Sketch and Watercolor Artist
Sue Frisbie has been part of the Talisman team for more than ten years. Sue brings artistic ability and vision when a new design needs refining, either with pencil sketches or full color renderings.
Karen Nousen, Administrative Assistant
Karen Nousen has been with Talisman Jewelers for six years. While maintaining Talisman's inventory and customer databases is her primary focus, Karen also produces The Talisman, our newsletter.
