Peace of mind costs very little…

I got a frantic call from a client first thing this morning hysterically describing the loss of a 1 carat diamond out of the center of her almost 4ctw ring.  We had worked on it last week, soldering her diamond wedding band to her engagement ring so it would be ready for her wedding this weekend.  My heart sank into my chest.  What happened?  Would she think it was our fault?  How is she expecting me to respond?  How am I going to call my owner and explain that we may have to replace a 1 ct diamond today?

Thankfully, after searching for over 2 hours, her fiancé found the diamond under the bed in their room.  So now what?  After I began breathing at a normal pace again I asked her how soon she could bring it to me so we could take care of it before they left to get hitched and she told me she was on her way; however, now she was absolutely paranoid about wearing it and didn’t know if she would feel comfortable with this ring ever again.  Knowing the time and expense they took choosing and paying for their ring, I was certain that her fiancé would not like the idea of her NOT wearing it so I decided to take matters into my own hands…

By the time she came into the store I had her appraisal paperwork and an application for jewelry insurance that would give her the peace of mind to wear her gorgeous ring with love and pride.  What is this jewelry insurance I speak of?  Why not have my jewelry covered under my homeowner’s insurance?  Doesn’t a store warranty cover that?

The answer is:  Jewelry insurance is not expensive, provides better coverage with little or no deductibles and NO–that store warranty you probably bought does not cover complete loss, theft or disappearance of your jewelry.

This story is not unique–unfortunately I hear stories of rings lost, bracelets and earrings that fall off and complete jewelry collections stolen after years of collecting and maintaining these heirlooms.  I hate the thought of women feeling as if they can’t have “nice things” because they can’t bear the thought of losing or having them stolen from them again.  I always say the same thing to them, “Peace of mind costs very little.  Do you know about jewelry insurance?”

Most of the time they tell me that their jewelry is either not insured because they have a warranty (?) or they have some coverage under their homeowner’s insurance policy.  The I hand them a brochure about comprehensive jewelry coverage that covers complete loss, theft, damage and even mysterious disappearance for about $15 per thousand per year with 0 deductible and a 100% replacement policy.  No having to find old receipts, get a bunch of estimates to replace or pay a high deductible before being able to replace your jewelry–fast, efficient, hassle free insurance that takes care of you and replaces what you lost.  Now that’s peace of mind.

I use Jeweler’s Mutual Insurance–a AAA rated insurance company started by jewelers and around since 1910.  Gemshield is another great option with similar rates and coverage.  

How would YOU find out about such products and services?  Reading this blog is certainly one way but I would also recommend visiting your local, independent jeweler, located in or around your community, and speaking with one of their professionals who will help you find the best options for you.  If you happen to be in the Tampa Bay Area, I’ll even help you with the paperwork or walk you through the application online; your policy will be bound immediately and you can go about enjoying your life and wearing your jewelry with the peace of mind and protection you deserve.

It’s my pleasure to help.  BTW–I don’t work for or sell jewelry insurance; I provide this as a service to my clients so that they feel good about wearing and enjoying their fine jewelry.  After all, why leave beauty in a box?  It needs to breathe and be seen in the light, shining as bright as the smile it brings to your face as you wear it.

I welcome your comments.