I've seen a lot of conversations about copying, but you have to remember that two people on different parts of the earth can come up with the same idea separately and create it. I've been approached by people that have said I've copied their work, which has not only been incredibly insulting but also factually incorrect.
I had someone moaning at me over the internet saying that I'd stolen their jewellery ideas and that I was brazen commenting on their work. However, the only similarity is that we both incorporated glass vials into our jewellery, and I pointed this out to them. It was as if they though any person making jewellery using a glass vial has copied them, but they're definitely not the first to use glass vials, and nor will they be the last.
I've seen people with very similar items to mine, and I do sometimes wonder, but I make sure that I keep producing new designs and creating better photos than other people to try and keep my work on top of the search.
Just be confident in your own brand and ability, and even if people have similar lines to you- through independent thought or copying, keep on top of your game and keep selling your wares, improving them and adding lines. Remember, if people are copying you, you'll always be one step ahead of them, so do your best to market yourself accordingly!
