April 14, 21 by John Jeffay
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(IDEX Online) - The GIA has won a trademark infringement suit against another grading lab -  AIG Belgium - over its use of a "look-alike logo".

A Belgian court said it would impose a fine of up to $600,000 for any future use of the offending seal design or of the standalone letters AIG.

It referred to AIG's "attempt to sail on the success of GIA's marks".

Online visitors to AIG Belgium now find a message that says the company has changed its name to Gem Report Antwerp and is constructing a new website.

GIA said in a statement that it went to court after several demands that AIG cease and desist in infringing on its protected marks and logos. It said it was also pursuing legal action against AIG-related entities in Israel.

GIA said it "vigorously pursues any person or organization who attempts to misappropriate GIA's intellectual property and reputation".

AIG Belgium, now known as Gem Report Antwerp, has been approached for a comment.

Pic shows the AIG and GIA logos ...

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