Here’s my original post from August 2023 and, since then, my design and images have also appeared on Ebay.
I naively sent a pair of earrings to Singapore a few months ago thinking it was to a genuine customer. Then a follower notified me recently that not only had my design been blatantly copied but that they were using my own images to promote the fake design – including my hands.
The fakes first appeared on Shein (since removed) but then appeared on AliExpress, who feature even more of my own images to promote them.
My real design uses recycled silver and real gemstones and each earring is individually hand sculpted – giving them a unique personality. They hang on quality sterling silver ear wires. They arrive in a recycled card box taped with plastic free tape and inside is a recycled card gift box. The proceeds support my wildlife rescue work. I enclose a rescue hedgehog postcard and info about helping hedgehogs and making your garden wildlife friendly.
The fakes are zinc alloy made from a mould. They hang on cheap base metal ear wires. They arrive in a plastic bag inside a plastic jiffy bag with no information – not even about who sells them. It’s sad really to see those little soulless hedgehogs in a bag.
I am trying to pursue this vital issue as I am now aware of so many other small makers affected by copyright theft. Here is the original advert on Shein – but you actually receive the earrings top left in my image above.
I hope you will help me to raise awareness of this vital issue and will consider boycotting these companies with their unethical practices. I always try and buy small, local and handmade where I can but I do appreciate that not everyone has the luxury of the budget to afford them.
Thank you for reading.
Oh and if you would like some of the originals my shop is www.littlesilverhedgehog.etsy.com
Little Silver Hedgehog 