The People Behind Your Pieces
Meet the Team Behind Lustig Jewelers
Decades of experience. Personalized service. A shared passion for helping our clients celebrate life's most meaningful moments.
Michael Helfer
OWNER
Michael Helfer is a third-generation jeweler, entrepreneur, and owner of Gregg Helfer Ltd. and Lustig Jewelers, carrying forward a family legacy that has been part of Chicago’s jewelry industry for more than 90 years.
The Helfer family’s story began in 1933 when Michael’s grandfather, David Helfer, entered the diamond business in downtown Chicago. Growing up surrounded by the industry, Michael developed an appreciation not only for fine jewelry and gemstones, but also for the trust, relationships, and personal service that define a successful family business.
Before joining the jewelry industry full-time, Michael built a career in sales and marketing, gaining valuable experience in customer service, communication, and business development. In 2003, he joined his brother Gregg at Gregg Helfer Ltd. on Chicago’s historic Jewelers Row. Together, they helped clients celebrate life’s most important milestones through engagement rings, custom jewelry, diamonds, and fine jewelry.
Following Gregg’s passing in 2016, Michael assumed ownership of the business and continued its tradition of providing expert guidance, transparency, and a highly personalized experience. In 2025, he expanded that legacy by acquiring Lustig Jewelers, a respected Chicagoland institution founded in 1949. His vision has been to honor the heritage of both companies while continuing to serve generations of clients with integrity, craftsmanship, and exceptional service.
What Michael enjoys most is helping people celebrate meaningful moments. Whether assisting with an engagement ring, redesigning a cherished heirloom, or selecting a gift to mark a special occasion, he believes jewelry should tell a story and create lasting memories.
Michael lives in Chicago’s northern suburbs with his wife of 24 years. Together, they have two children—one currently in college and another who recently graduated from college. Their family also includes two beloved Goldendoodles who keep life active and entertaining. When he’s not helping clients, Michael enjoys spending time with family, building relationships in the community, and continuing the traditions that have guided the Helfer family for generations.
Girly Gonzalez
Assistant Manager
Girly Gonzalez has been an important part of the Lustig Jewelers team for the past five years, bringing extensive experience in fashion retail and management to her role as Assistant Manager. Her background has given her a strong understanding of customer service, team leadership, and creating exceptional shopping experiences.
Known for her warm personality and attention to detail, Girly enjoys helping clients find jewelry that reflects their style and celebrates life's special moments. She takes pride in building lasting relationships with customers and ensuring every visit to Lustig Jewelers is both comfortable and memorable.
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Girly brings a vibrant energy and strong work ethic to the store each day. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their two children—one currently in high school and the other a college graduate. Her commitment to family, service, and community shines through every interaction.
Roman Sidelsky
Master Jeweler & Custom Design Manager
For 38 years, Roman Sidelsky has been the master craftsman behind many of Lustig Jewelers' most cherished creations. As Master Jeweler and Custom Design Manager, Roman combines exceptional technical skill with an artist's eye, helping clients transform their ideas, memories, and inspirations into one-of-a-kind pieces they will treasure for generations.
Widely respected for his expertise in custom jewelry design, jewelry restoration, and complex repairs, Roman works closely with customers throughout the creative process. Whether redesigning a family heirloom, crafting a custom engagement ring, or restoring a treasured piece to its original beauty, he approaches every project with precision, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail. Customers frequently praise his ability to accomplish repairs and restorations that others considered impossible.
Roman's craftsmanship has become a defining part of the Lustig Jewelers experience. His dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has earned the trust of generations of families throughout Chicagoland. As one of the longest-tenured members of the Lustig team, Roman continues to uphold the tradition of excellence that has made Lustig Jewelers a trusted name since 1949, helping clients celebrate life's most meaningful moments through beautifully crafted jewelry.
Paula Steir
Office Manager
Paula Steir has been a valued member of the Lustig Jewelers family for 37 years. Throughout her tenure, she has played an integral role in nearly every aspect of the business, gaining a deep understanding of both the customer experience and the operational side of the company.
From sales and customer service to administration and daily operations, Paula's versatility and dedication have helped support the continued success of Lustig Jewelers for nearly four decades. Her knowledge, reliability, and commitment to excellence make her an indispensable part of the team.
Paula takes pride in helping ensure that every customer interaction and behind-the-scenes process runs smoothly. Her long-standing relationships with customers and colleagues alike reflect the trust and professionalism she brings to her work every day.
Sherry Udany
Sales Associate
Sherry Udany joined Lustig Jewelers with a genuine passion for helping people and creating meaningful customer experiences. As a Sales Associate, she enjoys getting to know clients, understanding their needs, and helping them find jewelry that celebrates life's important moments.
Sherry believes that jewelry is more than an accessory—it represents memories, milestones, and personal stories. Her friendly approach and commitment to exceptional service help customers feel comfortable and confident throughout their shopping experience.
Although newer to the Lustig team, Sherry has quickly become known for her enthusiasm, positive attitude, and dedication to building relationships. She takes pride in helping customers find pieces they will treasure for years to come and looks forward to being part of many special moments in their lives.
Marcia Bruckman
Sales Associate
Marcia Bruckman brings a unique blend of customer service, business experience, and retail expertise to her role as Sales Associate at Lustig Jewelers. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for helping people, first through administrative roles in the financial services industry and later through retail merchandising and management.
Her diverse background has given her a strong understanding of customer needs, attention to detail, and the importance of creating a welcoming and personalized experience. Marcia enjoys working closely with clients, helping them navigate important purchases and find jewelry that reflects their style and celebrates meaningful occasions.
Known for her thoughtful approach and genuine care for others, Marcia is committed to making every customer feel valued. Her combination of professionalism, retail knowledge, and passion for service makes her a valuable member of the Lustig Jewelers team.