PROS
- TRUE MASTER…read moreJEWELER + LOCAL, DOES OWN BENCHWORK, WITH STOREFRONT
We wanted a true master jeweler who did all their own benchwork in-house and had a storefront with many complete display pieces. Most "custom" jewelers in the big markets (LA, Chicago, NYC) didn't make the cut (they mostly CAD the design, contract with jewelers who do benchwork, and don't have many finished pieces on display). I felt fully confident that Lester Lampert (LL) could make, change, modify, and fix anything easily if needed
- BEAUTIFUL, UNIQUE ART PIECES
After being disappointed in the lack of display pieces at custom jewelers, we went to all the big box stores on Michigan Ave and Oak St. They were so boring and all looked the same. LL is whimsical, artistic, and very Alice-in-Wonderland. If you're looking for something different, this is your place
- LOW PRESSURE SALES
This is NOT the place that pressures you towards any sale, ring, direction, etc. They DO NOT upsell. I asked multiple times if I should get a bigger diamond, and everyone told me "you could, but this size suits you well"
- NO NICKEL AND DIMING
Free steam cleanings, resizings, small diamond replacement! We wanted to buy local for the relationship and service. It's typical that jewelers offer free cleanings, but many nickel and dime you on resizings and small diamond replacements. Both are free here
- ONLY NATURAL DIAMONDS / NO LAB
If you care about this, it's a huge plus (I let my s/o pick, and he only wanted natural). LL does not work with lab at all. They test every piece that comes in, even for a cleaning. If it's lab, they don't touch or clean it. LL strongly stands behind natural diamonds, and this is also quality control for their customers, who never have to worry that their diamonds could be "swapped out" for inferior quality
- REASONABLE PRICING
The pricing is actually extremely reasonable, if you follow the market. It's cheaper than the "custom jewelers" in the Diamond District, who have to contract with/pay the actual bench jewelers, diamonds, etc
- SAFETY
It feels very secure. There's usually 2 security guards, and they remember every existing customer's face, even if it's been months. It's nice they remember you over time