Jewelry Insurance: What to Insure and How
Valuable jewelry lost, stolen or damaged – it can happen to anyone. Jewelry insurance is the protection against exactly these scenarios. This guide explains how to properly insure jewelry and what to consider.
Why jewelry should be insured
Jewelry is among the most frequently stolen valuables in home burglaries. At the same time, pieces are lost, fall down the drain, or are stolen on vacation. Without insurance, this is a complete loss. With the right insurance: replacement or compensation. Insurance coverage is especially useful for jewelry worth over €200.
Option 1: Home contents insurance
Most home contents insurance policies automatically include jewelry up to a certain value limit. Typical standard clause: Jewelry is covered up to 20% of the insured sum for "valuables" (bijouterie clause). Important details:
- Check whether burglary, simple theft, and loss are covered
- Note the valuable-item lower limit: Many contracts only cover jewelry up to €2,000–€5,000 without an add-on
- Theft outside the home (e.g., while traveling) often not covered or covered only to a limited extent
Option 2: Valuables add-on insurance
For expensive jewelry beyond the home contents standard: A separate valuables add-on insurance specifically designed for jewelry, watches, and art objects. Coverage typically worldwide, even when traveling. Requires a valuables listing (list of all insured items with valuation).
Option 3: Special jewelry insurance
Some providers offer separate jewelry insurance – especially useful for very valuable individual pieces (engagement rings, heirlooms). These often also cover "mysterious disappearance" (sudden loss without burglary), which standard home contents insurance policies do not cover.
What should be prepared for insurance
- Photos of all pieces: Good pictures of each piece individually – front and back, hallmarks visible
- Purchase receipts: Keep invoices – easiest to scan digitally as a PDF
- Appraisal: For pieces over €500, an appraisal from a goldsmith or jeweler – often €20–€50, establishes the value in case of loss
- Description: Document material, weight, stone descriptions for each valuable piece
What insurance typically covers and does not cover
Mostly covered: Burglary, robbery, fire, pipe water damage, natural disasters.
Often not covered: Loss without an explainable reason (except special insurance), normal wear and tear, repair costs after self-inflicted damage.
At what value is additional insurance worthwhile?
Rule of thumb: Document individual pieces from €500 separately. Total jewelry value over €3,000: Check home contents coverage and, if necessary, take out an add-on. Very valuable individual pieces (engagement ring from €2,000): Consider special insurance.
Buy beautifully, insure smartly at Corelune Jewellery
Good jewelry deserves good protection – at Corelune Jewellery you will find pieces worth insuring.
