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Who besides Leon Mege?

KikiD

KikiD

Shiny_Rock
Joined
Jul 11, 2010
Messages
136
Hi Everyone :D
I am in the market for a lower color diamond for a anniversary gift and having been sourcing out where to have my diamond (once I have it) set. It seems like Leon is pretty pricey and have read mixed reviews about him being "snooty" or whatever. Not that I wouldn't put up with that for talent of his caliber and a gorgeous piece! Just wondering..does anyone know of any other custom ring setters in the NY area (city and close to it) that might be a little less expensive and do great quality work? Suggestions and maybe even picture would be more than welcome PS'ers! thanks :D
 
Bump.

I've been wondering this myself! Hope someone around here knows :D
 
You might get more answers on this in Rocky Talky imho


Best wishes and Good Luck. Take your time and find something you love ! :twirl:
 
are you looking for a pave setting?

bridget durnell is also highly recommended, you could also check out maytal hannah, ocean pearlman, or 23rd street jewelers (I would ask this in RT though, I have not worked with any of these jewelers but have read about them on RT...I would ask charmypoo, she is very knowledgeable about these things!)
 
when you're asking around for quotes, i would ask for one from leon as well... you'd be surprised at his quotes... they're pretty reasonable actually... unless you're doing a 3 sided micropave all the way around...
 
Just to let you know:

I sourced my diamond and had my ring made by Leon. Just got it 2 days ago. It is literally the prettiest, most delicate, elegant object - let alone jewelry piece - I have ever held in my hands. It is beyond beautiful... it's ethereal.

I've had a great experience with the whole team at Leon Mege, from Racheal (who handles all the ins and outs) to Perry sourcing my diamond, to the master himself Leon.

I think where people run into issues are when Leon thinks they are a little yanking his chain. What I mean is if they ask for lots of quotes or want to micromanage the design. And not that those are actually bad things at all, but that's not the way he works.

He makes all his rings with the center stone in mind. So if you don't already have a center stone you can send him specs on or bring to him/have sent to him, it is a waste of his time to give lots of quotes that might not even work for your project in the first place. It pretty much works like this: look over his sight and decide on 1 or 2 designs you like the best. Ask for quotes on those. If you already have a center stone, send the specs and a photo. If not and you want them to source the center stone, say that. If you're still looking for a center stone from another vendor, you might want to do that first before asking for a quote from Leon.

Also, I don't have time to look them up for you, but check out the threads from Charmypoo, Wintotty, Luv2Sparkle,and VBnet. They all have had great experiences with Leon and even spent quite a long time on the phone with and in person working on the design. For all of us, we've had nothing but a delightful experience with him.

Just sayin... :wink2:
 
missydebby said:
Just to let you know:

I sourced my diamond and had my ring made by Leon. Just got it 2 days ago. It is literally the prettiest, most delicate, elegant object - let alone jewelry piece - I have ever held in my hands. It is beyond beautiful... it's ethereal.

I've had a great experience with the whole team at Leon Mege, from Racheal (who handles all the ins and outs) to Perry sourcing my diamond, to the master himself Leon.

I think where people run into issues are when Leon thinks they are a little yanking his chain. What I mean is if they ask for lots of quotes or want to micromanage the design. And not that those are actually bad things at all, but that's not the way he works. He makes all his rings with the center stone in mind. So if you don't already have a center stone you can send him specs on or bring to him/have sent to him, it is a waste of his time to give lots of quotes that might not even work for your project in the first place. It pretty much works like this: look over his sight and decide on 1 or 2 designs you like the best. Ask for quotes on those. If you already have a center stone, send the specs and a photo. If not and you want them to source the center stone, say that. If you're still looking for a center stone from another vendor, you might want to do that first before asking for a quote from Leon.

Also, I don't have time to look them up for you, but check out the threads from Charmypoo, Wintotty, Luv2Sparkle,and VBnet. They all have had great experiences with Leon and even spent quite a long time on the phone with and in person working on the design. For all of us, we've had nothing but a delightful experience with him.

Just sayin... :wink2:
Click to expand...



Hi Missydebby,

Your ring from Leon is lovely, and I'm glad that you and others on PS have had a good experience with Leon. :)). With that being said I debated about whether I should respond to your post, specifically the highlighted text. A few weeks back I posted about my not soo good experience with Leon, when he accused me of not being interested in buying any of his pieces and asking for excessive quotes. None of which were true!! So your post struck a bit of a nerve with me, because it would appear you are implying that perhaps it is the customers fault when Leon chooses to act in a unprofessional manner, void of any customer service skills. Again while your experience was a good one along with Charmypoo,Wintotty,Luv2Sparkle and VBnet, please do not assume that anyone who speaks up to say they did not have a good interaction with Leon is due to their own behavior. Its grossly inaccurate and untrue. You can only speak knowledgeably ,truthfully and accurately based on YOUR experience, however you cannot speak to my situation as you were not part of my exchange with him.


Have a good day!




LM
 
JbEG's bench is in NY, even though Grace and Erica are in LA and Seattle, respectively. I'm working with them on my new wedding set and they've been an absolute joy, every step of the way. I've seen the Julia ring on their website in person and it's GORGEOUS :love: The prongs and the milgrain around the pave basket were oh so delicate. The pics on their site really cannot do it justice. JbEG does custom work and I think their prices are very reasonable. You'll receive CADs and they'll happily answer every last question you may have.

I've also worked with Leon. I think his prices are also very reasonable for the quality of work you receive. However, whether or not you'll be happy with your experience depends on your personality and what sort of service you want. If you want a good deal of creative input and lean towards anal retentiveness, he's probably not the person for you. I think he has strong ideas about what looks good and I can't blame him because his work product is TDF. But what he thinks looks good may not be what you want. If you can roll with a hands-off approach, want something he's already made before and can trust his artistic eye, Leon will more than fit the bill. I wouldn't say that my experience with Leon was poor but I also would not say that it was great. It was okay. If I was in market to set my earrings in a simple setting or to buy an eternity band, I would strongly consider him. But for anything else, no. His personality doesn't quite mesh with mine. I want someone who I can speak freely with about my thoughts and ideas. His customer service skills (or lack thereof), leave something to be desired for me. Moreover, for custom work, I like to preview what I'm going to get and because Leon doesn't provide CADs, I consider that a deal breaker. Even though his prices are reasonable, when I'm spending thousands of dollars on a piece of jewelry that cannot be easily undone, I don't want any surprises.
 
Well, I am someone who knew what I wanted and asked for one quote and ended up buying that product.

His price was very reasonable for the quality of work I got. He delivered it in the time period he quoted me and the piece is very well made.

He was however kind of rude to me. He got very upset when I told him I planned to wear my wedding band with an e-ring. I know he doesn't like this, but at the same time, I have seen him make so many wedding sets for people. If he was more open with me about the issue, I might of considered using him to reset my engagement ring. But, in all fairness, there were other reasons I decided not to go with him for that.

I would like to try another project with him. Specifically, a setting for one of my colored stones. That will be a RHR, so it will be worn alone. I would love to give him my sapphire and have him figure out what is best for it. I don't have the funds right now. I would say if that experience does not go well, I will move on.

Other vendors I would consider are Ocean Pearlman, Maytal Hannah, and Singlestone.
 
LtlFirecracker said:
Well, I am someone who knew what I wanted and asked for one quote and ended up buying that product.

His price was very reasonable for the quality of work I got. He delivered it in the time period he quoted me and the piece is very well made.

He was however kind of rude to me. He got very upset when I told him I planned to wear my wedding band with an e-ring. I know he doesn't like this, but at the same time, I have seen him make so many wedding sets for people. If he was more open with me about the issue, I might of considered using him to reset my engagement ring. But, in all fairness, there were other reasons I decided not to go with him for that.

I would like to try another project with him. Specifically, a setting for one of my colored stones. That will be a RHR, so it will be worn alone. I would love to give him my sapphire and have him figure out what is best for it. I don't have the funds right now. I would say if that experience does not go well, I will move on.

Other vendors I would consider are Ocean Pearlman, Maytal Hannah, and Singlestone.
Click to expand...

He got upset about wearing a wedding band? Doesn't he sell wedding bands to go with his Lotus setting on the WF site?
 
Lol, sometimes it sounds to me like a successful project with Leon comes down to luck. Those who are lucky to ask for things in the right way have a great experience, those who don't get the "no soup for you!" shutdown.

More seriously, it sounds like the above descriptions have hit the nail on the head - he's the artist and doesn't like a lot of interference and opinions on the process. So that will work for some people and not for others. I'm more on the side of wanting input - I want my jewelry to reflect my ideas and be a representation of my own 'artistry', ...just executed by someone who actually has the skill. Not that I'm knocking the Leon Way either. Homeboy can sure make a ring.

Have you looked into Quest Jewelers? A lot of folks on here rave about their work and customer service.
 
KikiD said:
Hi Everyone :D
I am in the market for a lower color diamond for a anniversary gift and having been sourcing out where to have my diamond (once I have it) set. It seems like Leon is pretty pricey and have read mixed reviews about him being "snooty" or whatever. Not that I wouldn't put up with that for talent of his caliber and a gorgeous piece! Just wondering..does anyone know of any other custom ring setters in the NY area (city and close to it) that might be a little less expensive and do great quality work? Suggestions and maybe even picture would be more than welcome PS'ers! thanks :D
Click to expand...


If you like Leon's work, I'd give him a shot. You may get along fine with him. If you aren't you can always move on. Many of us have found him delightful to work with for whatever reason. If he was a total turd all the time, he wouldn't have this following.
 
I almost didn't use Leon because of the negative comments on this forum. I'm glad I changed my mind!

I bought a "super helix" band from him that is exquisite and I had him make another ring (Perry sourced the stone) that will be here next Tues. It is a 2.70 ct cushion in a split shank. And I am currently getting a quote on 2 more projects using diamonds I already own, one is a 1 ct rb diamond I want to halo (ring), and the other is .5 ct (each) rb's that I want to halo with his Belgium style (e717).

I've no doubt that he can be difficult and moody as some have experienced here.

I however have personally had a very easy time and I've been very happy with all my conversations with him. I don't bother him with excessive phone calls, I chose a setting already shown on his site, and I asked for his input. If working this way would be ok with you, then I think you would be very pleased with his work. If you are indecisive, ask "too many questions", want to change too much stuff, or change your mind frequently, you may have a tougher time. There is definitely an element of putting your trust in him and how he works when you buy a piece from him.

There are many vendors out there who do great work as well. For me, I took the chance and I love my pieces.
 
I think the price quote also depends on if he is interested in your project, he quoted me $2800 + sidestones for a simple 3-stone ring, but likely because I wanted it to be different from his typical 3-stones
 
KikiD: For the quality of workmanship you are getting, Leon's prices are quite reasonable. It's probably worth your while to at least get a quote from him. From my experience with him, the price is lower if you stay with one of his basic settings. I got a very reasonable quote for the Adriana, but when I asked for split shank and some unique design for the gallery, the price went up quit a bit. He does everything by hand, so you are not going to see a cad. You just have to trust him. When I signed the work order, I did not know what he was going to do with the gallery. He said he would not know until the ring is put together what he can do, but he would send me the design when he was ready. He did and I love the butterfly design that he came up with. So he came through for me and I am very happy with my ring.

AN
 
I thought this comment was kinda relevant for this thread, so here it is:

A couple weeks ago (it is gone now) did anyone see a 'welcome message' type of thing on Leon's homepage that went something like this:
"You have seen all the rest and heard all the promises, you are tired of hearing all the nonsense from the so-called self appointed experts on the PS, so now you have come to the right place...(then something about their quality and service)".

Please note this is Not verbatim and I'm not presenting it as such, but it is close - I'm just going from memory on something I read one time, that made me laugh- but it would seem the love-hate relationship between PS and LM apparently goes both ways :lol:
TBH, I did think it was kinda disrespectful as he gets soooooo much business through referrals and exposure on PS and through the "armchair experts" who buy and recommend his wares; plus he is an authorized advertiser here - perhaps that is why it went down quickly ;))

I also got a giggle that he was tooting their horn about their incredible customer service, whilst he has some of the most disgruntled clients going around on occasion...ah well.
Anyways, I am not looking to upset anyone who is recommending LM, and just to clarify I consider myself as LM-neutral. I have looked into working with him, found his service both good and bad at different points, and decided he wasn't for me at least for now.

Kikid, I don't have any more vendors to add except for the ones that have already been mentioned.
I think JBeG are doing really awesome work and by all accounts are top notch to work with (don't believe are near NY though).
I second the advice to give Leon a go - maybe you will be one of the transactions / personalities that works really well together, never know until you contact him - I recommend the phone ::)
 
I have been helping another one of my nephews with finding a diamond/ engagement ring over the past few months. I also helped both of his brothers. His older brother bought a diamond from James Allen and had it set by Leon. I could tell that when we first consulted Leon, he no longer wanted me holding my nephews hand so to speak. The ring turned out gorgeous. It is a marquise diamond with pear shaped sidestones in the asprey style setting. I have to admit, seeing the ring in person, I could not believe the daintyness of it. The claw shaped prongs where almost invisible. Although the center diamond and sidestones where not a large size, I don't think I liked that they were that delicate and I personally know that I wouldn't want them to be that delicate/almost invisible in real life had the stones been larger. That said, I did send Leon an email inquiring for my current nephew about making something on the lines of a Verragio setting that my nephew liked. It was all very preliminary as we where still searching for that perfect cushion cut diamond. Leon's response was very disenchanting to say the least. His reponse was that "you know that I am beyond the likes of Verragio" :shock: Really we just wanted to see if he could do something in the price range of the Verragio setting and so I found I was caught up in an explanation process with Leon and apologized if I insulted him as that was not the intent. I never got a response from him and so that spoke volumes to me. After reading rave reviews about Mark and Engagement Rings direct........ We contacted him and we are over the moon with the service so far. Mark found a gorgeous 1ct, 8 facet cushion cut diamond and is making a setting based on what my nephew likes and within budget...and it should be ready in a few weeks!! Although Mark is extremely busy (for good reason), he was always extremely patient, polite, and never let his EGO get in the way. He was always very humble and never said anything against anyone that he has worked with in the NY diamond district. We have had some great laughs as well. Although I have not seen the finished product, I know that if there is a problem, Mark will go above and beyond to fix it. Service is not just about the end product............it is about knowing that the Service will continue through and through. This is a purchase of passion and you should feel good about it! Good luck!
 
libramom said:
missydebby said:
Just to let you know:

I sourced my diamond and had my ring made by Leon. Just got it 2 days ago. It is literally the prettiest, most delicate, elegant object - let alone jewelry piece - I have ever held in my hands. It is beyond beautiful... it's ethereal.

I've had a great experience with the whole team at Leon Mege, from Racheal (who handles all the ins and outs) to Perry sourcing my diamond, to the master himself Leon.

I think where people run into issues are when Leon thinks they are a little yanking his chain. What I mean is if they ask for lots of quotes or want to micromanage the design. And not that those are actually bad things at all, but that's not the way he works. He makes all his rings with the center stone in mind. So if you don't already have a center stone you can send him specs on or bring to him/have sent to him, it is a waste of his time to give lots of quotes that might not even work for your project in the first place. It pretty much works like this: look over his sight and decide on 1 or 2 designs you like the best. Ask for quotes on those. If you already have a center stone, send the specs and a photo. If not and you want them to source the center stone, say that. If you're still looking for a center stone from another vendor, you might want to do that first before asking for a quote from Leon.

Also, I don't have time to look them up for you, but check out the threads from Charmypoo, Wintotty, Luv2Sparkle,and VBnet. They all have had great experiences with Leon and even spent quite a long time on the phone with and in person working on the design. For all of us, we've had nothing but a delightful experience with him.

Just sayin... :wink2:
Click to expand...



Hi Missydebby,

Your ring from Leon is lovely, and I'm glad that you and others on PS have had a good experience with Leon. :)). With that being said I debated about whether I should respond to your post, specifically the highlighted text. A few weeks back I posted about my not soo good experience with Leon, when he accused me of not being interested in buying any of his pieces and asking for excessive quotes. None of which were true!! So your post struck a bit of a nerve with me, because it would appear you are implying that perhaps it is the customers fault when Leon chooses to act in a unprofessional manner, void of any customer service skills. Again while your experience was a good one along with Charmypoo,Wintotty,Luv2Sparkle and VBnet, please do not assume that anyone who speaks up to say they did not have a good interaction with Leon is due to their own behavior. Its grossly inaccurate and untrue. You can only speak knowledgeably ,truthfully and accurately based on YOUR experience, however you cannot speak to my situation as you were not part of my exchange with him.


Have a good day!
LM
Click to expand...



A million lashes with a wet noodle - that's what you can give to me! That's true. Sorry if I struck a nerve. I forgot about your post. That's so weird to me, cause I'll I've read over the last many months are experiences and results similar to mine. But that doesn't discount your experience. Sorry again for my implications.

I guess where I'm coming from is that he has this reputation as the Soup Nazi and super expensive. And I don't think that's entirely merited. Is the process for getting a custom piece different than other vendors? Yeah, totally. Nazi? Nope. Selective? Yup. Is the cost out of bounds? Nope, totally consistent with other custom makers. Is he rude? Depends on who you ask. Worth it? Eye of the beholder.

Again, I'm sorry and I thank you for pointing it out. Although I may adore his workmanship and appreciate our conversations, if he makes a rude bed with a potential customer, he has to lay in it.
 
MARK MORRELL.......!

A little further distance wise from NYC but a lot closer personality and professional wise to any one who seeks quality.
 
No prob MissyDebby, my point was not to chastise you but to clarify my particular experience ;))

Thats what I love about PS is that everyone can share their experiences good,bad or indifferent. =)

Your Leon ring is very lovely, enjoy and wear in good health!!



LM
 
libramom said:
No prob MissyDebby, my point was not to chastise you but to clarify my particular experience ;))

Thats what I love about PS is that everyone can share their experiences good,bad or indifferent. =)

Your Leon ring is very lovely, enjoy and wear in good health!!

LM
Click to expand...

Exactly! =)
 
Nashville said:
He got upset about wearing a wedding band? Doesn't he sell wedding bands to go with his Lotus setting on the WF site?
Click to expand...

He is very vocal about not wearing his rings with another ring, yet he will make a set for people all the time. Maybe if I pushed a little harder he would have been open about the subject, I let it go really quickly. I think he has done a good job explaining why he does not like people wearing rings together, an article came out on his website (but that was after I bought my ring). Wearing 2 rings together will eventually wear them down. I had my rings made to minimize that damage, although I am aware it will eventually happen. My FI said I can have a new wedding set if it does :bigsmile:

On the upside. Me and my FI have very different wedding bands. So we decided to engrave them to unite them. I didn't realize mine would be so hard to engrave (both my e-ring and w-band are thin). So my FI called back Leon. They can do it, which is great, because most people cannot engrave a ring that thin, but have told us all the challenges upfront. The first is that it will be hard to see, and the second is that half the ring is engraved already (with their logo ect) so space is an issue. I am very appreciative they are willing to take the ring back for such a small project and were so upfront about the fact it would be difficult to see. I really don't care, I just want some element of our wedding rings that are similar.
 
Ltlfirecracker, could you tell me how thin your band is? Thanks!
 
rosetta said:
Ltlfirecracker, could you tell me how thin your band is? Thanks!
Click to expand...

Mine is 2.2 mm, but I asked him to make it that width. It is advertised on his website as the R860. He said he could make it thicker, but I didn't ask how thick.
 
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