We all know that jewelry can be expensive — engagement rings alone can cost an arm and a leg. Not only would losing a piece of pricey jewelry be devastating because of the financial loss, but it likely has some emotional significance and sentimental worth. Jewelry insurance can reimburse those who have their jewelry stolen from their home, damaged, or if it completely disappears.
Unfortunately, jewelry insurance is not included in home insurance policies. This means that it needs to be added to an existing renters or homeowners insurance policy or bought directly through a jewelry-only insurance company.
Jewelry Insurance vs. Homeowners Insurance
Home insurance covers any damage sustained to the inside or outside of the home, theft of possessions, and protects homeowners from being liable if a guest is injured in their home. But for people who own valuable items, heirlooms, and expensive jewelry, will benefit from special insurance coverage. There are few things worse than flushing an uninsured wedding ring down the toilet.
Jewelry Insurance Floater
An insurance broker can help people find the correct additional coverage or add specific items to their existing home insurance. Additional coverage, also known as a jewelry floater, gets added directly to homeowners or renters insurance. This typically costs about 1 to 2 percent of the total value of the jewelry being insured — it’s a small price to pay with a big reward if the item ever gets damaged or lost.
For example, a $5,000 diamond necklace or ring would cost around $50 per year to insure. Jewelry owners can either get reimbursed the cash value (including depreciation) or given the replacement cost if the piece of jewelry goes missing.
Most jewelry floaters come with an additional premium, so insurance brokers often offer customers discounts on the insurance plan.