Advice Needed: Leon Mege Replica

[cupcakebelle]

This is my first post, so hello to all! MY FF has been very nice to include me (a little) on the process of picking out a ring. He asked what setting I wanted and I told him I have never seen anything as beautiful as Leon Mege's Fleur de Lis ring. Here is a link for those who have not seen it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fux8ulV31hM

Anyway, my bf has told me that I may not get the ring I want, and that he might have a friend of a friend in the jewelry business make an "exact" replica of this ring since it will be significantly cheaper. I really don't like the idea of that at all. First of all, It would be stealing one of leon mege's original designs. I don't mind the idea of doing custom pieces that mimic others, but this just seems wrong. Especially since it is not just a solitaire or a simple design. Many details will be copied.

Also, Im extremely detail oriented and if anything is not right I will notice it. This jeweler told me BF they can make an exact copy ANYTHING because they use CAD. Those words really freaked me out. I think it takes a real artist to produce lovely designs, not some guy behind a computer. Just because they have CAD programs on their computer doesnt mean they have an "eye for proportions, or that they can produce a quality piece.I love this ring because of the details, and I feel like some of the details will be lost, or badly executed if someone else tries to do it.

What do you think? If you wanted this ring, would you consider letting someone else make it? Am I overreacting? if not, how should I tell my BF that this might be a bad idea? For the record I am all about a bargain (that's why I love pricescope!), but I still want a top quality product.

 

[OrchidVee]

Well, I think you answered your own question; you want good quality. Have you seen the work that this "friend of a friend" jeweler has done? Is it up to your standards? If it were me, I would go and see the jeweler..look at some of his work. It might not have the Leon name on it, but it might be just as beautiful. Also, why not add or remove a part of the Leon design? This way, you aren't exactly COPYING it and it's "your own" design. That might take away some of the guilt you feel. To be honest, if you chose to just have the exact ring copied, you would NOT be the first person to do so. A lot of people do that; it's a more economic option.

Now, I completely understand you wanting to have this original design by Leon, but you also have to understand your FF point as well; he might not be able to afford it. He loves you enough to get you a ring that looks exactly like the ring you want. I think that says a lot. I'm not telling you to settle for something you don't want, but you don't want to hurt your FF feelings because he has come up with an alternate option to get you what you want.

So, to answer your question..are you overreacting? In regards to the "copying someone's work..", I would say yes. The only reason I say that is because a lot of people do it (like I said before) and I'm sure it wouldn't be EXACTLY like his. Again, my advice (and only my advice/opinion), go look at this jeweler's work; see what he has to offer. You might actually see something else that he has made that you fall inlove with. It's worth a shot. Good luck!!

 

[decodelighted]

I'd level w/him. But the blame on yourself .... admit that you are way, way, way pickier and more detail-oriented/sensitive than the average person. And that if it means getting a smaller stone in order to get the Leon Mege original design you truly want .... or contributing to the ring project yourself to make it possible, you'll do it.

Hopefully he'll be willing to take your particular, unique nature in mind --- and it won't conflict with some kind of particular, unique nature in him that he has to control everything or wants it to be a surprise or wants you to be more chill etc.

 

[MrsDrP]

If it were me, I would do whatever I could to get the actual Leon Mege setting, even if it meant waiting to get engaged to save up money. I'm a HUGE believer in "good things come to those who wait." I'd rather wait and get exactly what I want than compromise on what I want to get it right now. If you don't mind me asking, what is his budget? It may be possible if you are willing to compromise on the diamond a little (possibility of upgrading the diamond one day?)

I wouldn't say that I am super attached to designers and name brand e-rings.....but I also realize that the reasons that designer e-rings come with the big price tag is because you are getting excellent quality! The Leon Mege Fleur de Lis setting looks like it has a very delicate pave band and other details that might be difficult for a jeweler to simple replicate. I'd worry about porosity and the quality of the pave work if having a replica made of a ring like this.

I know someone who had a replica made of a Ritani engagement ring. It looks like the Ritani she wanted....but when I look at it up close, the details are kind of sloppy and no where near as perfect as a real Ritani! I also know someone with a Tiffany replica and it is PERFECT! So, I guess it depends on the jeweler! like OrchidVee said, I would definitely ask to see some of the jeweler's replica work. Has he ever done replicas of designer settings? More importantly, has he ever made replicas of Leon Mege settings? Ask for pictures of the actual designer ring and the replica.

BEAUTIFUL ring, btw! I love the two little bumps on the side to help the ring from rotating! I have seen these on rings before, but these look gorgeous and they look like they belong there!

 

[ruby59]

After reading this thread, I am surprised that designers such as Leon Mege do not have copy rights over their designs. And while people on here have talked about getting a copy of a design to save money, I was under the assumption that most jewelers will not make it an EXACT copy.

 

[swingirl]

After reading this thread, I am surprised that designers such as Leon Mege do not have copy rights over their designs. And while people on here have talked about getting a copy of a design to save money, I was under the assumption that most jewelers will not make it an EXACT copy.

Very few jewelers are able to make a copy of Leon Mege's work, although they may try. The one's that have the skill will charge the same or more. The one's that don't have the skill will compromise.

I think you should find out what the budget is and then work within it. The whole "friend of a friend" never seems to work out because you aren't picking this jeweler based on their work, designs, etc. You are going with someone that you have no information about. Seeing their custom pieces is a start and them talking to them in depth about the details you care about would be the next step.

 

[cupcakebelle]

If it were me, I would do whatever I could to get the actual Leon Mege setting, even if it meant waiting to get engaged to save up money. I'm a HUGE believer in "good things come to those who wait." I'd rather wait and get exactly what I want than compromise on what I want to get it right now. If you don't mind me asking, what is his budget? It may be possible if you are willing to compromise on the diamond a little (possibility of upgrading the diamond one day?)

I couldn't agree with you more!! I have said this so many times! My BF and I have been together for several years and we already live together, so I'm perfectly content with waiting. However, I don't think his parents like us living together and want us to "put a ring on it" asap! I think thats why my BF is being so urgent... the friend of a friend jeweler is actually a friend of his dad's, so if he doesn't use him there might be some hard feelings.

I have no idea about the budget or anything else, and unfortunately I wont get to see this jeweler's work. I think that makes me the most nervous.The Bf wants to keep it as much of a secret as possible...but I think since I already know this much I should have more say on whats going on. Because lets face it...its not a surprise anymore! And on top of that, I do know that the friend can do the "same work" for $2,000 less. I think it may be too good to be true even if there is a special friend discount...thats just a lot of money. Also, my BF is more of a big picture person not really keen on details or knowledgeable about pave and what good and bad pave look like.

 

[OrchidVee]

[/quote]

I couldn't agree with you more!! I have said this so many times! My BF and I have been together for several years and we already live together, so I'm perfectly content with waiting. However, I don't think his parents like us living together and want us to "put a ring on it" asap! I think thats why my BF is being so urgent... the friend of a friend jeweler is actually a friend of his dad's, so if he doesn't use him there might be some hard feelings.

I have no idea about the budget or anything else, and unfortunately I wont get to see this jeweler's work. I think that makes me the most nervous.The Bf wants to keep it as much of a secret as possible...but I think since I already know this much I should have more say on whats going on. Because lets face it...its not a surprise anymore! And on top of that, I do know that the friend can do the "same work" for $2,000 less. I think it may be too good to be true even if there is a special friend discount...thats just a lot of money. Also, my BF is more of a big picture person not really keen on details or knowledgeable about pave and what good and bad pave look like.[/quote]

I think you have your heart and mind made up. Although there might be hard feelings, you won't be happy with the replica. It's honestly not worth you having to wear a ring you aren't happy with, right? I get that your FF wants it to be a surprise, but you are right, it's kind of too late for that (besides the proposal/how he will do it part). Are you willing to compromise on diamonds to get the LM setting?? Because if you are, then there ya go! Then in the future, you can maybe upgrade.

 

[MissStepcut]

After reading this thread, I am surprised that designers such as Leon Mege do not have copy rights over their designs. And while people on here have talked about getting a copy of a design to save money, I was under the assumption that most jewelers will not make it an EXACT copy.

My understanding (as a law student with several friends going into intellectual property law and having quizzed them) is: Leon Mege doesn't have to have to do anything to have a copyright over a certain solitaire: he already has it just by having "expressed" this version of the ring. OP's friend is trying to do something illegal here. Although, of course, it's unlikely that Leon will bring suit. Still, I would be VERY UPSET if my boyfriend gave me an "illegal engagement ring."

My prediction is, this course of action will lead to a damaged friendship, mangled ring and unhappy couple. If he insists on working with his friend, I think you should revise your expectations and pick out a ring that can be executed well with CAD. This thin, delicate pavé work isn't something I would want attempted by the friend.

 

[Amys Bling]

I'd level w/him. But the blame on yourself .... admit that you are way, way, way pickier and more detail-oriented/sensitive than the average person. And that if it means getting a smaller stone in order to get the Leon Mege original design you truly want .... or contributing to the ring project yourself to make it possible, you'll do it.

Hopefully he'll be willing to take your particular, unique nature in mind --- and it won't conflict with some kind of particular, unique nature in him that he has to control everything or wants it to be a surprise or wants you to be more chill etc.

yes. This exactly. If you are very detail orientated- and know that anything less than LEON's actual work will not stand up to your standards.... then tell your BF. If you are willing to get a smaller stone- lower color stone- lower clarity- what have you- then express that.

 

[Amys Bling]

After reading this thread, I am surprised that designers such as Leon Mege do not have copy rights over their designs. And while people on here have talked about getting a copy of a design to save money, I was under the assumption that most jewelers will not make it an EXACT copy.

My understanding (as a law student with several friends going into intellectual property law and having quizzed them) is: Leon Mege doesn't have to have to do anything to have a copyright over a certain solitaire: he already has it just by having "expressed" this version of the ring. OP's friend is trying to do something illegal here. Although, of course, it's unlikely that Leon will bring suit. Still, I would be VERY UPSET if my boyfriend gave me an "illegal engagement ring."

My prediction is, this course of action will lead to a damaged friendship, mangled ring and unhappy couple. If he insists on working with his friend, I think you should revise your expectations and pick out a ring that can be executed well with CAD. This thin, delicate pavé work isn't something I would want attempted by the friend.

couldn't agree more. If you have concerns about the details and precision of the friend of a friend, I might go with another setting that you will be happy with.

 

[MrsDrP]

If it were me, I would do whatever I could to get the actual Leon Mege setting, even if it meant waiting to get engaged to save up money. I'm a HUGE believer in "good things come to those who wait." I'd rather wait and get exactly what I want than compromise on what I want to get it right now. If you don't mind me asking, what is his budget? It may be possible if you are willing to compromise on the diamond a little (possibility of upgrading the diamond one day?)

I couldn't agree with you more!! I have said this so many times! My BF and I have been together for several years and we already live together, so I'm perfectly content with waiting. However, I don't think his parents like us living together and want us to "put a ring on it" asap! I think thats why my BF is being so urgent... the friend of a friend jeweler is actually a friend of his dad's, so if he doesn't use him there might be some hard feelings.

I have no idea about the budget or anything else, and unfortunately I wont get to see this jeweler's work. I think that makes me the most nervous.The Bf wants to keep it as much of a secret as possible...but I think since I already know this much I should have more say on whats going on. Because lets face it...its not a surprise anymore! And on top of that, I do know that the friend can do the "same work" for $2,000 less. I think it may be too good to be true even if there is a special friend discount...thats just a lot of money. Also, my BF is more of a big picture person not really keen on details or knowledgeable about pave and what good and bad pave look like.

I don't think there is anything wrong with you wanting to get exactly what you want in an engagement ring. After all, it is YOU who is wearing the thing every day for the rest of your life! I understand him wanting it to be a surprise, but you are right, it isn't really a surprise anymore. My SO let me pick out my stone and my setting and the way he is going to propose is the surprise part of it, and I am totally fine with that! Lord only knows what he would have come up with without my input He should know you well enough by now to know that you pay close attention to details and may be somewhat OCD (as am I ).

If he is in a rush to get engaged because of his parents opinions of you two living together, well...tough titty! That is no reason to rush you into an engagement with a ring you dislike. This is a decision that the two of you are making together, you and him, and you need to have input too. I wouldn't let his parents rush you, especially on something as big as this! Family is certainly a big part of a marriage, but him rushing through the process of selecting the perfect ring because of his parents is foolish! This is a big moment in your life...you need to enjoy it to the fullest and you deserve to get what you want!

And yes....a Leon Mege replica for $2000 is probably too good to be true. If jewelers could replicate his work that easily and that cheap, he'd be out of business!

MissStepCut - Leon Mege wrote something about his opinions on the ethics of jewelry replicas - it's an interesting little read

 

[MissStepcut]

How much is just the Mege solitaire, without the pavé? I thought his settings cost less than $2k for the plain classic "claw" solitaire. It would be devastating if this didn't actually save your boyfriend any money. Still, it appears to be about the relationship with the family friend more than it is about what you really want. Well, that's not a great feeling, but that's also the way gifts work out sometimes. I once asked an ex-boyfriend for a strand of pearls and he got me this really ugly set of fakes from Macy's. It was a gift, and I didn't get to have a say. Engagement rings are gifts too.

I realize this is a little different because I got to throw the pearls out later and presumably you'll be keeping your ring a bit longer, but I also don't agree that your wishes for a Mege ring trump his desire to work with the family friend. It won't be the last time you have to compromise your preferences to keep him, your in-laws, etc happy. He asked you what you'd like and gave you some parameters. Since you get to have this much knowledge about what will happen, you have the opportunity to tailor what preferences you express knowing it will be CAD.

Then go ahead and get a stunning Mege wedding band to sidle up next to it.

edit: unless you actually want to wait to get engaged and the in-laws are driving the timeline. If you aren't ready, can you just tell him it's not time yet? I really hope you're not being pressured into moving forward before you want to.

 

[vintagelover229]

Why not get engaged with a simple solitaire setting (his friend of a friend can't really "mess" that up) and later on down the road you have a reset fund that you both put into. That way-however long it takes depending on the savings plan-you can get the REAL deal down the road? That way you can still get a nice sized stone AND get the Leon when the time is right.


Then after you do the reset you can set a colored stone in the old setting and wear it as a RHR and get some stacker bands for it. I mean it's a win win all around to me!

 

[nkarma]

How much is just the Mege solitaire, without the pavé? I thought his settings cost less than $2k for the plain classic "claw" solitaire. It would be devastating if this didn't actually save your boyfriend any money. Still, it appears to be about the relationship with the family friend more than it is about what you really want. Well, that's not a great feeling, but that's also the way gifts work out sometimes. I once asked an ex-boyfriend for a strand of pearls and he got me this really ugly set of fakes from Macy's. It was a gift, and I didn't get to have a say. Engagement rings are gifts too.

I realize this is a little different because I got to throw the pearls out later and presumably you'll be keeping your ring a bit longer, but I also don't agree that your wishes for a Mege ring trump his desire to work with the family friend. It won't be the last time you have to compromise your preferences to keep him, your in-laws, etc happy. He asked you what you'd like and gave you some parameters. Since you get to have this much knowledge about what will happen, you have the opportunity to tailor what preferences you express knowing it will be CAD.

Then go ahead and get a stunning Mege wedding band to sidle up next to it.

edit: unless you actually want to wait to get engaged and the in-laws are driving the timeline. If you aren't ready, can you just tell him it's not time yet? I really hope you're not being pressured into moving forward before you want to.

His plain solitaires are under the $2k mark but if you add pave and more detail, that is going to double. I am guessing the fleur de lys is $3500-$4500 just for the setting.

Cupcake, I have to second everyone else and agree that you just need to have a frank conversation with your boyfriend. This is (almost) 2012 and you seem to have made the decision to get married together, this should be another one of those joint decisions. I guarantee you will get what you pay for here. If you are detail oriented, you will not like it and instead of paying 4k for the setting, you will have a wasted a lot of money on a 2k setting that you do not like. Ever done something like this before with another purchase? It doesn't feel good.

Also, regarding his parents wanting you to get married. You both sound a little unprepared for marriage if that is what is prompting this quick proposal decision. Since you are adult enough to get married, please start setting boundaries with both of your parents as to what role they play in your life decisions.

 

[yssie]

Cupcake, I can say with certainty that you are not going to be happy with the result if your BF goes with this friend of a friend.

A HUGE ditto to MissSC's point about choosing a design that is well-suited for execution by casting... a very delicate wire piece with lots of pave made originally by a master of his craft is definitely not a good example of that.


As for vendors beginning projects with the intent to copy other vendors' designs exactly - I personally find it absolutely repugnant, whether or not it's strictly legal. There's one vendor popular here on PS that I will never work with or recommend for precisely this reason.

 

[aviastar]

I have asked my local jeweler this same legality question because they do a lot of commission work and I was curious how they handled it. According to them, using a CAD system (especially one with a laser scanner, but any CAD system) to copy the designs of another is illegal -precisely because it can get so close to the original (technically; dependent, of course, on the skill of the CAD user).

If a jeweler is going to make a new peice by hand, through either hand carving a wax model or through all hand fabrication, it is not illegal because by definition hand made products are one of a kind. However- my jeweler will insist on at least one significant change in the design from a moral standpoint. He designs original jewelery and doesn't want anyone copying his work, he will certainly not make exact 'replica' pieces either.

Just food for thought- hope you can have a frank conversation with him and find a middle ground you are both comfortable with!

 

[nkarma]

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/halo-help.169403/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/halo-help.169403/[/URL]

 

[atp223]

I've wondered about the copyright issue arising from copying jewelry ever since starting my e-ring process/finding pricescope. We had originally looked into a tacori replica by whiteflash, simply because I wanted higher quality diamonds and was unimpressed by tacori in person. They had said something about changing the design by 20% (or some random percentage), but with that minor change, they could make the replica.

I'm actually an IP attorney, but my speciality is patents, so I don't see much copyright stuff - but I've certainly studied copyright law and had never heard of that. Copyright infringement has a few aspects to it (eg you must register the CR before bringing suit it fed ct, you must show someone actually copied rather than independently coming up with it), but the actual test to see whether something infringes (if the other aspects are met), is whether there is a "substantial similarity" btwn the copyrighted work and the accused product. I looked into it a bit, and an artist may have trouble proving CR infrigement of something comprising known elements, but they may have protection for the particular combination of known elements if it is unique (eg David yurman has won CR infringement suits over his jewelry combining twisted cable jewelry and gemstones).

I asked a coworker who does more copyright work than I do, and she pointed me to this website: http://www.jjkaufman.com/articles/Dontbeacopycat.htm .

I've seen copyright questions come up on here from time to time, so I thought ps-ers may be interested. There is a lot more information about CRs wrt jewelry out there, but I don't want to bore you all