Copyright on Engagement ring settings??

[Breezee]

I was told I should post my question here, instead of in "jewelry pieces" so here goes:


I''m new here and find this website to be an incredibly educational resource. Thanks to all who contribute. In looking for a diamond and engagement ring setting, I''m finding this process to be quite expansive and expensive. While I knew the diamond would take a nice bite out of my pocket, I had no idea that certain settings were just as expensive. I''ve seen that several places make custom jewelry and from what I''m seeing, it is a pretty common thing to get an engagement ring custom made. My question is: Is there anything related to copyright issues when it comes to custom designing a ring? To put it in other words, if I see a ring I like made by a certain designer, but can''t afford the "designer price," will custom jewelry makers have a problem replicating the ring for me? Is there a rule against doing that? Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[mrssalvo]

You might find a hard time getting a jeweler to make an exact copy of a designer setting. Some will want you to make minor changes to the design in order to avoid any copyright violation, which IMO will allow you to really make something special that is your own. There are certain designs out there that are public domain so to speak so having someone make it wouldn''t be a problem though. Do keep in mind, especially on more difficult and intricate settings that the original maker has perfected the design. many times a custom *copy* will not look the same and you may not always save money. well made pave rings for example are labor intensive and expensive no matter who is making it. Also, if a ring is handmade or cast will also factor into the price. If there is a desginer setting you really love, there probably already is a knock off stock version available which might be the most cost effective.

 

[mrssalvo]

which setting are you interested in? maybe we can provide you with some alternate suggestions!

 

[Breezee]

Date: 8/8/2007 12:00:16 PM
Author: mrssalvo
which setting are you interested in? maybe we can provide you with some alternate suggestions!

Verragio ENG-0069


http://www.goodoldgold.com/setting/VRG-ENG-0069V/

 

[gwendolyn]

Thanks for asking this question. I''ve recently been drooling over a custom Mark Morrell design that he did for someone else here on PS and I was wondering if someone else would be able to recreate that ring or if the only option would be through the designer himself.