You may have copyright protection as the ornamental rock design is non-functional. 17 USC 102. If so, getting a design patent may be counterproductive and a waste of money. A copyright would last for your life plus 70 years while a design patent would cut that short to just 14 years. See an experienced IP attorney and review your options.
Bruce E. Burdick Alton Intellectual Property Law Attorney
Posted over 13 years ago.
You may have copyright protection as the ornamental rock design is non-functional. 17 USC 102. If so, getting a design patent may be counterproductive and a waste of money. A copyright would last for your life plus 70 years while a design patent would cut that short to just 14 years. See an experienced IP attorney and review your options.