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Foundrae Sues Pandora Over Alleged Medallion Design Copying

Side-by-side comparison of Pandora and Foundrae medallions, showing alleged design similarities. - nationaljeweler.com

Legal Action Filed Over Talisman Collection

New York-based fine jewelry brand Foundrae has initiated legal proceedings against jewelry giant Pandora, accusing the company of copying its signature medallion designs for Pandora’s debut medallion collection, dubbed ‘Talisman’. The lawsuit was filed on February 17th in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, asserting that the styles within Pandora’s collection infringe upon Foundrae’s copyright-protected medallions.

Foundrae’s Signature Style

Founded in 2015 by designer Beth Hutchens, Foundrae has cultivated a reputation for its personalized and symbolic medallions, crafted from 18-karat gold and often adorned with natural diamonds. These pieces, which draw inspiration from mythology and nature, have gained a celebrity following, with notable wearers including Taylor Swift, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Emily Ratajkowski. Foundrae’s medallions are presented as modern heirlooms, with prices reportedly reaching up to $69,000.

Pandora’s Talisman Collection

Pandora launched its Talisman collection in August 2025, featuring 12 medallions with popular motifs such as lions, roses, arrows, and celestial symbols like the sun and moon. This collection is made from recycled sterling silver with 14-karat gold plating and is positioned as an affordable luxury, with prices ranging from $45 to $125. This price point offers a stark contrast to Foundrae’s fine jewelry offerings.

Allegations of Infringement

Foundrae contends that Pandora’s Talisman collection is strikingly similar in look, feel, and symbolism to its own signature pieces. The lawsuit states that Foundrae began receiving inquiries from customers who noticed the resemblance. Specifically, Foundrae alleges that two Pandora designs, the ‘Crossing Arrows’ and ‘Sun and Moon’ medallions, closely replicate ‘nearly verbatim the protected expression of the original designs’ and constitute willful copyright infringement.

Beyond the design similarities, Foundrae also accuses Pandora of mimicking its marketing aesthetic. The lawsuit claims that Pandora’s in-store merchandising of the Talisman medallions mirrors Foundrae’s collage-style, mood board approach.

Foundrae’s Stance and Demands

Ruth Sommers, CEO of Foundrae, emphasized the brand’s core philosophy. ‘Foundrae was built on the belief that jewelry should carry meaning. Every design we create is intentional, original, and deeply personal to who we are,’ Sommers stated. ‘Originality isn't just an aesthetic choice for us; it is an expression of a philosophy we have spent years developing. We take the integrity of our creative work seriously, and we will always stand firmly in defense of it.’

Foundrae asserts that it attempted to address the issue with Pandora directly before filing the lawsuit. The brand is seeking a jury trial and requests a permanent injunction to prevent Pandora from producing and selling the allegedly infringing designs. Additionally, Foundrae is asking for the recall of the Talisman collection from Pandora’s stores and website, along with seizure and destruction of infringing items, damages, and legal fees.