Sterling Jewelers is suing two New York jewelry companies, Classic Imports and Key Items, alleging they are both engaging in “the unauthorized copying, reproduction, distribution, and sale” of its copyrighted “Open Hearts by Jane Seymour” line.

Sterling’s complaint calls the Jane Seymour line “one of the most popular and best-selling jewelry lines in the United States.”

Classic Imports and Key Items did not respond to requests for comment.

Sterling Jewelers spokesman David Bouffard told JCK: “Sterling Jewelers Inc. cannot tolerate any attempt by others to ignore the legal and ethical premise of copyrights. Copyrights exist to protect the rights of designers against those who would profit illegally from their work. As part of our commitment to our partnership with Ms. Seymour, we will take all actions necessary to protect the value and integrity of our designs.”

In September, Sterling announced a settlement with two other companies it accused of infringing on its “Open Hearts by Jane Seymour” copyrights.

JCK