Valentine’s Day sales figures in 2009 reached an estimated $15 billion and a good percentage of that was related to jewelry sales. If you make any large purchases this year talk to your Molyneaux Insurance agent about scheduling them as personal property or getting a stand-alone jewelry policy to make sure you are covered appropriately.

A standard homeowner’s policy may not adequately cover your jewelry items. Many people take steps to protect their jewelry by installing alarms in their homes or having their valuables checked annually for loose stones. But there's still risk. According to the US Dept. of Justice, the theft of jewelry and precious metals is second only to car thefts in the US.

Jewelry Care
With Valuable Articles coverage, your jewelry can be itemized, with each piece described and individually valued on your policy. By itemizing your jewelry, you don't have to worry about an accidental loss, chipped stone or stolen item. You can also help prevent jewelry losses or damages by following these simple tips to properly care for your valuables:

Preventing Damage
Always separate jewelry items by storing them in soft cloth in a jewelry box or a safe deposit box. Obtain fabric pouches from a jeweler or retailer. Twisting and bending of semi-rigid chains and pieces can cause permanent damage.
Protecting from Loss
Jewelry should be checked periodically by your jeweler to make sure that prongs and clasps are secure. Never spray colognes or hair spray when wearing pearls as the chemical content can permanently damage your pearls.
Guarding Against Theft
It's best not to keep your most precious jewelry in your bedroom or jewelry box. Statistics show that bedrooms are the first place burglars enter after breaking into a home. For optimum security, store valuable jewelry in a secure home safe. When travelling, never pack your jewelry in your luggage and always use a hotel vault or security vault when you arrive at your destination.

Caring for Specific Pieces
Watches - Replace broken or scratched crystals immediately - even hairline cracks can allow dust or moisture into the mechanism, threatening its accuracy. Check your watch clasp periodically to prevent accidental loss.
Diamonds - Be cautious while engaged in rigorous activity and when cleaning your diamond, use mild detergent or a sudsy ammonia bath. Never let your diamond come into contact with chlorine bleach, as it can pit and discolor the mounting. Have your prongs and mountings checked annually and your stone professionally cleaned at least once a year.
Pearls - Pearls need special care since they can easily dry out and become damaged due to lotions, cosmetics and hairspray. Have your pearls cleaned and restrung regularly to prevent pearl strings from becoming stretched, weakened or soiled. Wash pearls with mild soap and water after each wearing. Over time, perfume, cosmetics and hair sprays can erode the quality of your pearls.
Gemstones - Guard against loose settings by having prongs and mountings checked annually. Each gemstone is different so check with your jeweler for specific care and cleaning procedures.

Click here for information about appraising fine jewelry.