HOW TO INSURE YOUR DIAMOND JEWELRY
Written by Jorge
Like any high-value possession, your diamond jewelry should be protected. Whether it's a custom engagement ring, a hand-crafted Cuban link, or an iced-out pendant from VVSJ, these aren’t just accessories—they’re investments. Fortunately, you can insure your diamonds just like your car or home. And if you're wearing $10,000 to $100,000+ on your wrist or neck, there's no reason you shouldn’t.
But before you get coverage, there are a few steps to take—and several options you should know to make sure your jewelry is properly insured.
Start With an Appraisal
To insure your jewelry, you’ll first need to know its value. That means getting an official appraisal. At VVSJ, we offer professional appraisals starting at $125 per piece, and we include one free upon request with most high-end custom orders. The appraisal documents the details of your piece—metal type, stone quality, total carat weight, and a verified replacement value.
Let’s say you have a 14k yellow gold Cuban link chain with 20 carats of diamonds—you could be looking at an appraisal value of $45,000–$60,000, depending on the clarity and cut. That’s not something you want to leave uninsured.
Once appraised, store the paperwork in a safe place, and make backup copies and photos for your insurance company.
Types of Jewelry Insurance Coverage
When it comes to insuring your VVSJ piece, here are the three most common options:
1. Replacement Value Insurance
This is the most affordable and widely used option. It covers the cost to replace your item with something of equal value and quality—usually based on wholesale pricing, not the full retail you paid.
Example:
You bought your VVSJ custom chain for $30,000. It’s appraised at $35,000. If it’s stolen, your policy may cover a replacement piece—possibly costing the insurer $25,000–$30,000 to recreate.
Pros: Lower premium
Cons: Doesn’t always match what you originally paid or would pay to replace retail
2. Cash Value Insurance
This policy pays you the current market value of your item at the time of loss. Keep in mind, this can change over time due to diamond price fluctuations.
Example:
You bought a $50,000 diamond bracelet three years ago. But if the market value drops and your piece is only worth $40,000 today, that’s what you’ll be paid.
Pros: Simple payout
Cons: Could lose value over time
3. Agreed Value (Valued At) Insurance
This premium option locks in a fixed payout value, agreed upon when the policy is signed—regardless of future market shifts.
Example:
You insure a VVSJ engagement ring for $15,000 agreed value. If it’s stolen, you get that full amount, even if the market drops and it’s only worth $12,000 at the time.
Pros: Full payout guarantee
Cons: Higher monthly premiums (usually $12–$20/month per $10,000 insured)
How Much Does Jewelry Insurance Cost?
On average, jewelry insurance costs about 1% to 2% of the appraised value annually.
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A $10,000 ring = $100–$200/year
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A $50,000 chain = $500–$1,000/year
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A $100,000 watch = $1,000–$2,000/year
Some insurers (like Jewelers Mutual, BriteCo, or Lavalier) even offer zero-deductible plans with worldwide coverage, fast claims, and the ability to return to your original jeweler (like VVSJ) for repair or replacement.
Get Insured. Wear Confidently.
Insurance may seem like a formality—but when you're wearing tens of thousands around your neck or wrist, it’s a must. The peace of mind is worth every penny.
If you need an appraisal or want help getting your insurance policy started, VVSJ is here for you. Email us at info@byvvsj.com or DM us on Instagram @vvsjco.
Your piece is priceless. Protect it like it.