Why You Need Jewellery Valuations for Insurance — And How Often to Update Them

Jewellery carries not only financial value but often deep emotional significance — engagement rings, inherited pieces, luxury watches and milestone gifts. Whether worn every day or tucked safely away, these treasured items deserve proper protection. That’s where professional jewellery insurance valuations come in.

I’m Amanda, founder of The Jewellery Appraiser in Reading, Berkshire, and I specialise in providing fully accredited jewellery valuations to ensure your precious items are protected with the right level of cover.

What Is a Jewellery Insurance Valuation?

A jewellery insurance valuation is a professionally prepared document that states the replacement value of your item, should it be lost, stolen or damaged. It includes:

• A detailed description of the piece

• Metal type and hallmark information

• Diamond or gemstone grades

• Professional photographs

• Current replacement value based on today’s market

As a member of the Institute of Registered Valuers, my valuations are trusted and accepted by UK insurance companies.

Why Do You Need One?

Many people assume their jewellery is covered by their home insurance — but insurers often require a formal valuation for high-value items (usually £1,000 and above). If your jewellery is not properly listed with an up-to-date valuation, your insurer may:

• Refuse your claim

• Offer only partial payment

• Require proof of value that cannot be provided later

A valuation offers peace of mind, clarity, and full protection.

How Often Should Jewellery Be Revalued?

Jewellery values change over time due to fluctuations in precious metal prices, gemstone markets and luxury brand increases. Insurers typically recommend updating valuations every:

• 2 to 5 years for most jewellery

• 2 years for luxury watches (e.g. Rolex, Omega, Patek Philippe)

• Whenever gold, diamond, or luxury watch prices rise significantly

Keeping your valuation up to date ensures you are neither underinsured nor overpaying for cover.

What Happens If Jewellery Isn’t Valued Correctly?

Without an accurate valuation, you may experience:

Issue	Result
Under-insurance	You only receive a fraction of the item’s value in a claim
Outdated values	Replacement cost exceeds the insured amount
No documentation	Delays, disputes, or declined insurance claims

A professional valuation protects both your jewellery and your peace of mind.

The Jewellery Appraiser Process — What to Expect

When you visit my private home studio in Tilehurst, Reading, the process is simple, discreet and enjoyable.

During Your Appointment

• I assess each piece in your presence

• Take weights, measurements and gemmological notes

• Photograph each item professionally

• You remain with your jewellery at all times

After Your Appointment

• I research current market replacement values

• Prepare a detailed, fully compliant valuation report

  You’ll receive:

  • A professionally bound folder

  • A PDF electronic copy (ideal for insurance submission)

How Much Does a Jewellery Valuation Cost?

My insurance valuation fees are:

Number of Items	Fee
First item	£120
Second item	£70
Each additional item	£60

For probate (IHT/ IHTA) valuations, values are often lower and multiple items can sometimes be grouped to keep costs down, just ask.

When Should You Get a Valuation?

You should consider booking if:

• You’ve recently received an engagement ring

• You’ve inherited jewellery or watches

• You’re updating an insurance policy

• You own luxury watches or branded pieces

• You haven’t had your valuation updated in 3–5 years

Ready to Protect Your Jewellery?

Booking is easy — you can arrange an appointment by: Emailing me directly on amanda@thejewelleryappraiser.co.uk

Visiting my website’s booking page: www.thejewelleryappraiser.co.uk

Location: Private studio, Tilehurst, Reading, Berkshire

Final Thought

Your jewellery tells a story — of love, history and legacy. A professional valuation ensures that story is protected, no matter what happens. I’d be delighted to help you preserve it.

Warmest wishes,

Amanda

The Jewellery Appraiser – Reading