Preparing for Insurance: What Your Policy Needs from an Appraiser

Jewelry often holds more than just monetary value—it carries memories, milestones, and meaning. Whether it’s a diamond engagement ring, a family heirloom, or a luxury watch, protecting your treasured pieces with the right insurance coverage is essential. But without a certified jewelry appraisal, your policy may fall short when it matters most.

At Associated Gemological Services, we specialize in providing accurate, certified jewelry and diamond appraisals to help clients in Hawaiʻi safeguard their investments. In this blog, we’ll guide you through what insurance companies require and how a proper appraisal can give you peace of mind.

 Why Jewelry Insurance Requires a Professional Appraisal

Unlike standard household items, fine jewelry can vary significantly in value depending on quality, brand, craftsmanship, and market conditions. Insurance providers need specific, detailed documentation to issue or update a policy, and that’s where a professional appraisal becomes critical.

An accurate appraisal ensures:

• Proper coverage amounts in case of loss, theft, or damage
• Clear descriptions to prevent disputes during claims
• Evidence of ownership and value for estate planning or legal purposes

Without an up-to-date appraisal, you could be underinsured—or worse, have your claim denied.

 What Insurers Expect in a Jewelry Appraisal Report

Insurance companies don’t just want a dollar figure—they want a professional report that supports it. A certified jewelry appraisal should include:

✔️ Detailed Item Description

• Type of jewelry (e.g., ring, necklace, bracelet)
• Materials (gold, platinum, silver, etc.)
• Gemstone descriptions (cut, color, clarity, carat weight)
• Design and setting specifics

✔️ High-Quality Photographs

Clear images of the item, including close-ups of hallmarks or engravings, help with identification and validation in case of a claim.

✔️ Appraised Value

The estimated replacement value based on current market trends, labor costs, and material prices—what it would cost to replace the item with one of similar kind and quality.

✔️ Appraiser Credentials

Insurers often require the appraisal to be done by a certified gemologist or accredited appraiser, such as those affiliated with the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), AGS (American Gem Society), or NAJA (National Association of Jewelry Appraisers).

 How Often Should You Update Your Appraisal?

Jewelry values can change over time due to:

• Market fluctuations (especially with gold, diamonds, and luxury brands)
• Inflation
• Changes in condition or wear
• New appraising standards or technologies

We recommend updating your appraisal every 2–5 years, or anytime you:

• Purchase new jewelry
• Make modifications to existing pieces
• Change or renew your insurance policy

 Pro Tips for a Smooth Insurance Process

1. Get a standalone jewelry insurance policy or add a jewelry rider to your homeowner’s insurance—your appraisal will be required either way.
2. Store your appraisal reports and receipts in a safe place, and consider keeping digital copies.
3. Inform your insurance provider of any updates to your collection or changes in appraised value.
4. Use a trusted, local appraiser—especially in Hawaiʻi, where market factors and lifestyle (humidity, salt exposure) can impact wear and value.

 Work With a Trusted Jewelry Appraisal Expert in Hawaiʻi

At Associated Gemological Services, we provide detailed, certified appraisals that meet insurer requirements and give you confidence in your coverage. Whether you’re insuring a recent purchase or an heirloom passed down through generations, we offer clarity, credibility, and care in every evaluation.

Ready to protect what matters most?

Schedule your jewelry appraisal with our Honolulu-based team today and ensure your treasured pieces are properly valued and insured.