Ever wonder about whether the 10 commandments have a gray area? You know like, thou shalt not kill (unless I really hate they guy), thou shalt not commit adultery (unless your spouse cheated on you first) or thou shalt not steal (unless it’s from a big company like Tiffany?) Well Tiffany doesn’t see any such gray area. They are aggressively pursuing Costco claiming the warehouse seller is moving merchandise marked “Tiffany” that is absolutely not authentic Tiffany jewelry.
Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso Loving Heart Ring
There are a whole lot of reasons for the Tiffany lawsuit including trademark infringement, false advertising, injury to reputation, and deceptive business practice. They didn’t mention lack of atmosphere in warehouse stores, but they were probably thinking it. Costco apparently sold items described as “Platinum Tiffany” or “Tiffany Ring” to their customers which had no relationship to the real Tiffany. Tiffany lawyers didn’t take to kindly to the descriptions, especially considering some of these Costco items were sold with prices in the thousands.
Tiffany & Co. Platinum and Diamond Victoria Collection Ring
Basically, Tiffany is claiming Costco stole their name and sold it to their customers at fake Tiffany prices.
Many Costco members may have bought the goods thinking they were genuine Tiffany goods. It is yet to be seen how Costco will handle this once their customers realize the old switcheroo.
Authentic Pre-Owned Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold Heart Pendant and Chain
Both companies seem to be doing well with Costco earnings up almost a $100 million from the previous year. Tiffany reported a three percent increase in sales for the Americas resulting in end-of-year two month sales of a whopping $516 million.
Elsa Peretti Sterling Silver Open Heart Necklace
While neither company seems to be hurting in sales it will be up to a judge to see if Tiffany was intentional hurt by Costco’s selling of the items. Tiffany obviously feels it is a clear cut case of identity theft.
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti 18k Yellow Gold Large Open Heart Chain
Make sure if you think you are buying authentic pre owned Tiffany you are purchasing from a reputable seller. They will be able to spot this not so Tiffany – Tiffany jewelry.
Raymond Z for Raymond Lee Jewelers, South Florida’s premiere source for buying and selling luxury watches and designer jewelry.
