Lee Michaels Grand Opening

In 1978, Brenda and Lee Berg risked everything they owned to open the first location of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry in Baton Rouge. Since then, the familyowned business has grown to include nine locations and is in its second generation of ownership and management led by Brenda and Lee’s three sons, Ryan, Scott and Chad Berg.

This year, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry moved from a location inside Lakeside Mall to a new, freestanding showroom with twice the amount of merchandise on Causeway Boulevard in Metairie. One of the store’s entrances offers a selection of fine jewelry while the other focuses on timepieces.

“We have been working on this new location for over five years,” said Chad Berg, co-president. “We are so excited to finally bring our customers and friends in the New Orleans metro area a new level of luxury. We have been a part of this community for over 25 years and with this expansion, our commitment to this city is greater than ever.”

The 10,400-square-foot showroom offers an elevated shopping experience and features shop-in-shops for high-end brands such as Rolex, David Yurman, Tudor, Roberto Coin, Tag Heuer and Mikimoto. There’s also a greater selection from designer favorites including Marco Bicego, Temple St. Clair, Lagos, John Hardy and Ippolita.

That’s not all the new location offers. An expanded bridal counter is framed by unique, hand-painted butterfly wallpaper. A state-of-the-art watchmaker shop is visible from the showroom floor. Customers also enjoy complimentary beverages while resting in a modern seating area.

“Our philosophy of providing each customer with extraordinary jewelry and service will continue,” Chad said. “Personal service has been the cornerstone of our growth and the foundation we build upon. This store expansion will be another opportunity to introduce more people in the New Orleans region to the level of quality and service for which Lee Michaels is known.”

The Berg family and their buyers search the world for the highest quality gems, diamonds, timepieces and giftware, only choosing those that offer expert craftmanship and value to display in their jewelry cases.

Each member of the Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry consultant team is educated through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), an elite, internationally recognized organization of jewelers and manufacturers who adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct in professional expertise, merchandising and advertising. Many of Lee Michaels consultants continue their studies, earning the title of Registered Jeweler and Graduate Gemologists, which allows them to provide expert advice on new jewelry purchases, custom jewelry designs or tender care in the repair of special jewelry pieces passed down through generations.

“We are constantly looking to innovate and grow. We have enjoyed our Lakeside location for the last 25 years, but it was time to enhance our customer experience and the environment in which they shop. We are excited not only for our customers to see the new store, but also for our sales associates who are our greatest asset. This is just as exciting for many of them who have been with us for 20-plus years,” said Lee Michael Berg, founder and chairman of Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry.