Everyone probably has quite a few pieces of jewelry they value. Loose stones, engagement sets, family heirlooms—they all add up, and they all are things that you want to keep with you forever. However, you can’t protect these items completely, which is why you need the benefits of quality jewelry insurance to help you cover these items.
However, there are still ways that you can protect your jewelry in ways that will minimize the risk of something ever damaging it or causing it to be lost. Some of these practical steps to consider are as follows:
- Take pictures of your jewelry, including the stones and engravings. This will help you identify the items and have proof that they are yours in case they ever get lost or stolen.
- Have an appraisal of the value of each item, or keep the receipts of purchases on file. If you ever have to file a claim on your jewelry insurance, this will help you verify their values.
- Jewelry insurance will often offer coverage for lost items, such as a ring that slips off while you are washing dishes and goes down the drain. However, it is always best to take off your jewelry before washing dishes, performing manual labor or playing sports. You will reduce the risk that a piece might fall off and get lost without being noticed.
- Keep your jewelry organized, and in a single place, such as a jewelry box. For added security, keep your most valuable pieces in a locked, waterproof and fireproof container. A safe, filing cabinet or strong-arm jewelry box are all options.
- For added storage security, store your most important pieces in a safety deposit box at your bank. You can take these items out when you want to wear them, and then re-deposit them.
- Do not advertise or flaunt your jewelry, either in your home or in public. You never know when someone might notice your items and decide to make off with them.
- When traveling, always make a note of what you bring with you, and deposit it in your room’s safe or with the concierge.
Of course, since you cannot eliminate the risk of something happening to one of your pieces, you still need the benefits of qualty jewelry insurance. At times, you can insure items as endorsements to your standard homeowners insurance. In other cases, it is better to buy a stand-alone jewelry insurance policy. Jewelry insurance will contain appropriate coverage terms to help you comprehensively insure even your most precious items, and you’ll be able to use this policy specifically if ever the need to file a claim arises.