Common Jewelry Loss & Repairs That Require Insurance
Any piece of fine jewelry that is worn every day, such as an engagement ring, is more susceptible to damage or loss. Since engagement rings are often the most expensive piece in a personal collection, it makes sense to make sure it is insured.Diamonds are still the favorite stone for engagement rings and, contrary to popular belief, a sharp strike on a hard surface can easily chip a diamond. Even washing dishes in a ceramic sink can cause chipping.
Water sports are another culprit for loss. Your fingers constrict when they’re cold, so losing a ring while swimming or snorkeling presents a very real risk. In fact, any sporting activity can be hard on jewelry.
According to Jewelers Mutual Group, the only insurance provider that specializes in jewelry insurance, more than half of the company’s claims are partial losses. Losing a stone from a ring is one of the more common instances. Winter gloves are notorious for catching on prongs and loosening ring settings. Partial losses, such as chipped stones, aren’t covered under typical homeowners policies. To cover all jewelry losses, get a rider on your homeowners policy. Better still, choose a standalone policy for your jewelry like the one offered by Jewelers Mutual Group.
JA Jeweler Tip
“I helped a newly engaged couple who came into the store because they were…concerned about an inclusion that was near the edge [of their diamond]. I told them there is a risk that the diamond could chip or break along that inclusion and if they're worried about it, they should consider insurance. I handed them the Jewelers Mutual pamphlet knowing their insurance would cover such a loss. I'm glad to have eased their concerns!”
deJonghe Original Jewelry
Coverage Considerations
Homeowners Policy
When insuring jewelry, check your coverage. On basic homeowners policies, jewelry is protected for only certain causes of loss. Damaging an item or losing all or part of one are not typically covered, and theft is often limited to $1,000. You can “schedule” your jewelry on your homeowners policy; it will cost an additional premium, but provide better coverage.
Dedicated Jewelry Insurance
A stand-alone, specialized policy, such as those offered by Jewelers Mutual Group, provides broad, worldwide coverage and won’t jeopardize your existing homeowners policy if a jewelry loss occurs.
Repair or Replacement Policy and Appraisals
With a repair or replacement policy, your insurance company steps in for you and deals directly with your jeweler of choice to help the jeweler recreate an exact match to your original piece. A jewelry appraisal assigns value to your entire piece, taking into account the setting and any stones. Insuring your jewelry for its current retail replacement value is vital for repair or replacement.
Jewelers of America recommends Jewelers Mutual Group, as it is the only insurer dedicated solely to serving the jewelry industry in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1913, Jewelers Mutual was formed by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. More than 300,000 consumers trust Jewelers Mutual Jewelry Insurance to protect their personal jewelry. You can find Jewelers Mutual insurance in nearly 10,000 jewelry businesses in North America. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.
