This section should really be called Frequently Answered Questions. Click the question to reveal the answer.
1. Is there a significant difference between a Leon Megé ring and one made by other jeweler?
Is there a significant difference between a Leon Megé ring and one made by other jeweler? Leon Megé emphasizes quality rather than speed of production or a price point. We adhere to the highest standards for craftsmanship and decades of expertise ensures that every aspect of a Leon Megé diamond engagement ring is the absolute finest. A unique experience of a face to face designing session in the calm of our imagination inspiring atelier, guidance by an award winning designer cannot be matched by any other jeweler or a stone dealer. Our experienced diamond specialist with deep roots in family diamond cutting business will sit down and educate you in every aspect of diamond science. He will spend as much time as you require to help you learn, compare, select, and buy the perfect diamond or gemstone.
2. I never bought a diamond ring, how do I start?
I never bought a diamond ring, how do I start? You can get all the information you need on our website. We provide a number of educational materials and tools that can help you get started. Explore our Research Lab where you can do some heavy learning and tone your diamond muscles or research our policies in Reference section.
3. Do I need to make an appointment to visit Leon Megé?
Do I need to make an appointment to visit Leon Megé? Yes, you do need an appointment to visit Leon Megé. You can always try to call ahead, we would be happy to set up an appointment on short notice and pre-arrange a selection of diamonds and rings for you to try.
4. Why are Leon Megé antique cushion diamonds so bright compared to the bogus vintage cuts we see on the market?
Why are Leon Megé antique cushion diamonds so bright compared to the bogus vintage cuts we see on the market? Every Leon Megé diamond must pass by a personal esthetic criteria to go far above and beyond the Four Cs or any pseudo-scientific gibberish. As an artist, and more so as an experienced professional gemologist, Leon Megé evaluates all diamonds differently — taking into consideration not only whether a diamond looks good on paper, but whether it meets Leon Megé’s visual standards for beauty. A diamond could have perfect symmetry and look great on paper, however subtle differences such as excessive symmetry could render the stone dead. We choose diamonds according to a more complex set of criteria, including a high level of artistic observation which cannot be translated into a gemological report.
5. Is the color of a diamond more important than its clarity?
Is the color of a diamond more important than its clarity? A personal and cultural preference is the main factor in this decision. Leon Megé carries diamonds of all color grades. To state that a stone cannot possess a great beauty and value in a certain grade of color or clarity is stupid and ignorant. Certain brands' claim to maintain a diamond selection cutoff is mainly a marketing decision. It’s well known that they are quietly engaged in dealing in diamonds that do not correspond to their own “official” standards. Our high standards ensure that every diamond we choose will feature a truly exceptional beauty brilliance and value.
6. Does Leon Megé carry Vintage Cushion cut diamonds?
Does Leon Megé carry Vintage Cushion cut diamonds? The Vintage cushion cut is essentially a trade name that describes a version of Old Mine cut diamonds with, a small table, a built up crown, a large open culet. Leon Megé is well known for True Antique line of diamond cuts, in particular True Antique cushion Diamond, which is cut to a highest level of artisan craftsmanship by our New York cutters. True Antique cushion diamonds not only superior to any other bogus cuts or second hand used diamonds peddled on the Internet, they are the only genuine antique cushion diamonds currently cut anywhere.
7. What diamond cuts does Leon Megé carry?
What diamond cuts does Leon Megé carry? We carry round brilliant-cut, Asscher-cut, emerald-cut, cushion-cut, modern cushion-cut, radiant-cut, oval, pear, marquise and heart-shaped diamonds. We also have an exclusive selection of unique cuts such as True Antique cushion cut and True French cut diamonds, as well as sets of side stone and diamond layouts such as diamond trapezoids, half moons, diamond shields, kite shaped diamonds, diamond bullets and diamond baguettes.
8. Are Leon Megé diamonds certified or do I have to get my own certificate?
Are Leon Megé diamonds certified or do I have to get my own certificate? Every diamond engagement ring, every loose diamond we sell is accompanied by an original diamond report from the Gemological Institute of America. We will be able to re-certify your own heirloom stone if you want to, certain fees will apply.
9. Does Leon Megé carry own designs in store?
Does Leon Megé carry own designs in store? Absolutely! In addition to our inventory of house designed engagement rings and couture jewelry, Leon Megé is well known for creating and designing custom made one of a kind engagement and wedding rings. Leon Megé design aesthetics are a perfect mix of traditional and contemporary styling to make sure that your ring will not ever require remounting and will be passed on to next generations when the time come. Leon Megé will be happy to work with you on your dream ring and bring it to life.
10. I received a quote and am ready to move forward. What should I do next?
I received a quote and am ready to move forward. What should I do next? The ordering process is easy. Go to Guide to Ordering for a step-by-step guide. Contact us to finalize the purchase of the stone. If you are supplying your own stone, you can go ahead and send it to us. The shipping instructions can be found here: Shipping.
11. How the quote is calculated?
How the quote is calculated? There are many factors that we take into consideration in calculating your quote. To understand your quote go to : Quote Explained
12. Do you sell men’s wedding bands?
Do you sell men’s wedding bands? Our hand forged men’s wedding bands are available with the purchase of a diamond engagement ring or a diamond wedding band. We also specialize in making ultra-comfortable flexible unisex wedding bands. You can browse our Wedding bands selection
13. Can I buy a diamond somewhere else?
Can I buy a diamond somewhere else? Yes you can, but why would you do that? It is practically guaranteed to be less money out of your pockets if you purchase a stone through us. You always have the option to bring your own stone, but before you buy your stone elsewhere please give us a call: (212)768-3868 or toll-free (800)542-1954. There are very few "unauthorized" dealers whose stones Leon Megé will refuse to accept. A great majority of the dealers in the trade are honest, trustworthy people and we don't have any issues that would prevent us from using their stones. Please check with us to learn whether you are buying your stone from a legitimate source.
14. Do you buy rings back? I would like to purchase a larger diamond.
Do you buy rings back? I would like to purchase a larger diamond. We approach each client individually, upgrading or purchasing back your diamond is always an option. Our relationship with our clients mean a lot to us, accomodating your changing taste and lifestyle is our mission.
15. Can I save money by using white gold instead of platinum?
Can I save money by using white gold instead of platinum? High quality custom fabrication is much more labor intensive in white gold. Any savings would be wiped out by higher labor costs. With the margin between the price of gold and platinum shrinking, and the cost of skilled labor increasing, you should expect a higher rather than lower price with white gold.
16. I'm not sure of the ring size I need. What do I do?
I'm not sure of the ring size I need. What do I do? It is very important to have the correct ring size before commissioning a custom work. Visit us to have your finger properly measured. Or read our Sizing Manual.
17. Will my wedding band fit flush with my engagement ring?
Will my wedding band fit flush with my engagement ring? It could, but we strongly recommend to wear your engagement ring and wedding band on separate hands. Please read the article Right hand or left? first
18. Do you provide a warranty and/or do repairs?
Do you provide a warranty and/or do repairs? We offer Lifetime warranty. For terms and conditions please read Warranty & Repairs
19. How will I know when my order is completed?
How will I know when my order is completed? We will contact you as soon as the work is done by either email or phone. We will not ship anything unless we contact you to confirm that you are ready to accept the delivery.
20. Can we keep my project a secret from my future fianceé?
Can we keep my project a secret from my future fianceé? We will accommodate your request but please make sure that the only information we have on file is yours and make sure to remind us prior to shipping.
21. Can I post pictures and videos of my ring online?
Can I post pictures and videos of my ring online? Sure. It's yours, you can snap as many pictures as you want and post it anywhere you want. Post pictures on our Facebook Page as well. There are no limitations, so please feel free to add your images!
22. How do I clean my ring?
How do I clean my ring? Maintenance of your ring is easier than you think, just check our cleaning section and see for yourself. Cleaning
23. What is the most popular engagement ring style?
What is the most popular engagement ring style? The perfect ring is what you like. Generally for their engagement rings, most people favor one of three major style groups: rings with halo, solitaires, and three stone rings. Embellishments and features such as micro pave, shank profile, prong styles etc. could be added to every type of a ring. What is important to remember is that the engagement ring must be the most conservative piece of jewelry you wear. It will last a lifetime and will be current and stylish if you avoid loading it up with pretty but unnecessary elements. Pave should be used sparingly if you have concerns about its durability. Round diamonds are the most common. Antique cushion diamonds are the most popular among our clients. A Leon Mege Antique cushion diamond in a micro pavé halo is a current favorite. Five stone rings with emerald cut diamonds and elongated cushion diamonds is one of our bestsellers. The True Antique French cut calibre solitaire is the rage of the sophisticated crowd while our Classic solitaire and its anorexic cousin solitaire “Princessa” is wildly popular among people who are very careful with their money. Leon Megé’s classic designs ensure that the style you choose will never go out of fashion.
24. I love the look of one of your classic designs. How can I make it unique?
I love the look of one of your classic designs. How can I make it unique? Firstly, a hand-made, custom designed ring is unique in itself. If you really want your ring to be special there are numerous ways to go about it without creating a wacky design. For engagement rings we recommend a classic sophisticated design. Here’s why: a. The ring will be worn for decades and be passed on to your children and children’s children. Their tastes will be different than yours. Your own taste in 10 years will be different from what it is now. Stay classic.
b. Classic designs are evolutionary. They were not created; they evolved over hundreds of years, shedding unnecessary parts like dinosaurs shedding their ugly scales to turn into beautiful birds. The result is pure elegance wrapped in an almost invisible cloak of platinum. Taking away any part of the design would compromise the structure. Adding an element would compromise the style and would corrupt the flow of lines and curves. What would it look like? Imagine Britney Spears doing a Beatles song.
c. Creating a beautiful yet simple design is the Holy Grail of the jewelry trade. It’s next to impossible. Most “unique” designs are simply ugly cousins of their classic counterparts.
d. An engagement ring is nothing more than a pretty holder to keep a stone strapped to your finger. The stone is the main attraction. The ring is not. The ultimate ring would be completely invisible and one day it will be possible. Until then you need us to mount the stone in a way that showcases your stone and s the mounting.
To make your engagement ring unique and special:< br />Engrave a personal message or set one or few tiny “secret” stones inside the ring. They could be diamonds or birthstones of your loved one. Nobody will be able to tell but you and your significant other!
25. Do you offer an appraisal report?
Do you offer an appraisal report? We will be able to provide a copy of an in-house appraisal for free with your diamond purchase. However we believe that a truly objective appraisal could be conducted by an independent professional only. Read more on the subject of Appraisal
26. How do you pronounce Megé?
How do you pronounce Megé? Leon Megé is a nom de guerre, although Leon is the real name. It is pronounced Mey-zhée”
27. What happens if my future fiancée refuse to accept the ring I bought?
What happens if my future fiancée refuse to accept the ring I bought? Leon Mege rings are so irresistible that no woman yet was able to reject a proposal no matter how much she was repulsed by the suitor. We are so confident in her saying “yes” that we guarantee it. What will happens if she says “no”? We will provide you with a replacement based on a fine selection of mail order brides from Kazakhstan. She will appreciate your fine taste in jewelry and will adore you and the green card you’ll apply for. As far as your ring - as long as you bought the stock piece and the ring has not been worn, we would be happy to help you select a better choice. Certain restrictions will apply. Please consult our return and exchange policy.
28. Can I request to have my ring to be made personally by Mr. Megé?
Can I request to have my ring to be made personally by Mr. Megé? Yes. Right after Mr. Jobs assembles your iPhone with his own hands. We work as a team, Mr. Megé is personally involved in every aspect of production. He is the heart and brains of Leon Megé Inc. and he is responsible for every piece we make. When a finished piece leaves the shop, it is distinctly “Leon Megé,” just as if he were to have made it himself.
29. Why are you closed on weekends?
Why are you closed on weekends? So we can get enough rest to be able to make the most beautiful jewelry in the world during the week.
30. Can you send me additional images?
Can you send me additional images? Unfortunately it's not always possible. We ask you to register in order to gain the access to the archived portion of our portfolio. More than 90% of our portfolio is archived so there is a good chance that you'll be able to see alternative images there. Registration is simple - here's a quick and easy guide to help you register
31. I work as a stylist for [name censored]. Could you loan me a few pieces to be worn to [event location censored]?
I work as a stylist for [name censored]. Could you loan me a few pieces to be worn to [event location censored]? We don’t loan our pieces. All of our pieces are one-of-a-kind, we have to sell them in order to make a living. We cannot look our customer straight in the eye and call the piece brand new when it has been worn.
32. Is it true that just like late Harry Winston Leon Mege never allowed himself to be photographed?
Is it true that just like late Harry Winston Leon Mege never allowed himself to be photographed? Not at all. Unlike old chap Harry who could have made a lot of money modelling for thousands of city's gargoyles Leon Mege is quite handsome.