Hello, this looks like it is a great place for info and design help.
I have recently produced a design piece that was a big hit with the
person I designed it for. The client was so happy with it that she
recommended that I pitch the idea to a major jewelry Co. here
in Texas. It is a collateral piece that would accompany the piece of
jewelry. I was hesitant at first, but now I think that I am starting to
become more interested. I have talked to some people about town
and the over all recommendation is to get the Idea, Design, or
Concept copy righten before I try selling it around. I would not even
know where to start as far as copyright protection goes, but I am going
to start with the web. Any other technical advice from some one who
is in the know would be great.
"Copyright is secured automatically when the work is created, and a work is “created” when it is fixed in a copy or phonorecord for the first time.
…
“In general, copyright registration is a legal formality intended to make a public record of the basic facts of a particular copyright. However, registration is not a condition of copyright protection. Even though registration is not a requirement for protection, the copyright law provides several inducements or advantages to encourage copyright owners to make registration.”
Copyright disputes always come down to burden of proof of valid copyright ownership. A dated/signed original in possession of the creator is substantially good enough burden of proof. Method by which you strengthen the establishment of that copyright are various. The oft mentioned mailing yourself a copy is a method.
I date all my original designs and have had cause to provide dated sketches and they were good enough to establish copyright ownership of that design in a Minnesota court in my company’s favour.
That is very good to know.
I just think that I have a very good idea, and I would hate
for some Co. to deside they could do it for them self.
I also need to look into info on selling such a thing.