De Beers is suing retailer Kohl’s and a trio of New York jewelry manufacturers for allegedly infringing on its patents for its Everlon Diamond Knot collection.
 
In one action, De Beers sued Kohl’s, New York company Brilliant Jewelers/MJJ as well as ten unnamed “John Does” over the Love Knot collection sold at Kohl’s stores.
 
The similarities between Everlon and the Kohl’s Love Knot collection were the subject of a JCK blog post in December 2009.
 
“The [Everlon] Collection is De Beers’ original design concept and style, and has attracted significant consumer and trade attention,” court papers say.  “[The] Defendants were aware and copied Plaintiff’s patented designs when it created the ‘Love Knot’ collection.”
 
In the second action, De Beers sued Adwar Casting over the company’s Love Knot collection, and Dinaro Creations over its Love Knot and Hercules Knot collections.
 
De Beers, which introduced the Everlon Collection last year, is seeking damages, attorney fees, and injunctions against the products in question.
 
Adwar and Kohl’s declined comment.  Dinaro and the attorney for Brilliant/MJJ have not responded to requests for comment at press time.   
 
De Beers itself has been sued over Everlon. In December 2009, Orogem sued the company, claiming Everlon infringed on its Larkhead pendant designs. That case is ongoing, with De Beers recently filing a counterclaim seeking attorney’s fees.

JCK