Learn about Jewelry Appraisals

Did you know that not all renter's or home owner's insurance policies cover the theft or loss of jewelry? Speak to your agent. If your policy will insure your items, you need to have them included on your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, which means a complete description and value of each item must be listed on your insurance policy. If your policy does not cover jewelry, or if it covers pieces only of a certain value or for theft but not for loss, you'll need another policy just for your jewelry. Miner's Den works closely with Jeweler's Mutual Insurance, and they deal strictly with jewelry. Our sales associates can get you in contact with their agents to discuss what would work best for you. Regardless, any pieces you want to insure will have to be appraised. We offer appraisals on every type of jewelry: Rings, Watches, Bracelets, Necklaces or Pendants, and Earrings.

 

What should I have appraised?
 

Miner's Den recommends insuring items that are valued at over $1500. Between the cost of an appraisal, insurance premiums, and any deductible you might carry on your policy, it is often not monetarily sound to have a piece that is valued below that threshold appraised.

 

How much do appraisals cost?

The fee structure for written appraisals is listed below. However, keep in mind that there is no charge for our advice in determining if items are worth appraising. Please note that if items have been changed in any way (a ring is sized, links are added to or taken out of a watch or bracelet, etc.) they must be re-appraised in order to be accurate on your policy. This is because metal and possibly stones have been added or removed, and the value of the piece has changed. Also, insurance companies will ask that you have your appraisals updated every few years, possibly as many as 5, regardless. Please check with your agent or provider to find out how often they require updated appraisal values. Please understand that you will have to leave your items with us for a few days for the appraisal process. There will be an additional fee for appraisals requested finished in less than 48 hours.

*New Appraisal: $150 Each Item & $100 for Each Additional Item
*Appraisal Updates on Miner's Den Appraisals: $75 each*

 

What can I do to prevent theft or loss?
 

The majority of theft occurs when workers, guests, or friends are in your home, and your jewelry is visible or accessible for them to steal. Thefts of this nature can be prevented. When you're not wearing your jewelry, secure it in a home safe or hiding spot that is inconspicuous for thieves, yet convenient for you. Otherwise follow this advice to effectively conceal your valuables:

Tips for loss prevention
As contrary as it seems, do not store your high-end jewelry in a jewelry box left out on the dresser, or stored in one of the dresser drawers. These places, as well as almost any other spot in your bedroom, are where thieves look first for jewelry. Be original when selecting a location in your home to store jewelry; choose a place that's not easy to find. (Jewelry boxes are the best way to keep your pieces organized and safe from both entanglement and damage. If you do have a jewelry box, be sure to store it somewhere out of the way, where people wouldn't think to look for it. You might want to think about getting a safe in which to store it.)
Never leave jewelry sitting out in the open on a counter or dresser. Take a moment to put it in a safe place, away from pets and children, and remember where you left it.
Remove your jewelry and place it in a safe location before gardening, playing sports, or performing chores (especially those involving chemicals) around your home.
If you take your jewelry with you when you travel, use the hotel security vault for safe keeping. Do not pack jewelry in luggage because luggage is often stolen. Keep it in your purse or carry-on kept at your feet.