I want to design and sell a line of jewelry.How does one know if they are infringing on existing designs?

Question

Are existing jewelry designs considered proprietary,sort of like plagerism of existing text in the literary world ,or is jewelry "design" protected only by specific design patents and or trademark names? I see so much of the same designs by different companies ,it seems there are no restrictions.What type of licensing does one need to become a jewelry designer retailer?Is it possible to have a particular gold design manufactured into long" yardage" and then cut to size for rings, bracelets ,earings , etc.Is it OK to use the design of my existing gold band which I adore ,but have it commisioned -adding diamonds ,gemstones earings etc and then sell these items which are a variation of this existing simple gold band?Im pretty sure the original manufacturer has discontinued it.How can I find out for sure ?How can I find out who made it originally, Could I license their original design adding to it ,for my jewelry line? Does any one research jewelry manufacturers? Its 10 years old.Sandie

Answer 1

Where are the pro's here?

If I had asked so many questions I never would have never gotten started.

I picked up the pieces from a business that had gone under and breathed new life into it.

Of course there is some research,creativity, and perserverence.

I had talked to other small business owners to see how they did it.

Good luck