Top four tips to care for your luxury jewellery

If you received a new piece of jewellery for the holidays, Valentine's Day, or another special occasion, it’s important to take steps to ensure that you enjoy it for years to come.

Proper storage is essential. When you’re not wearing your jewellery, consider keeping it in a high-quality safe that meets New Zealand standards and offers strong protection against theft and tampering. Choose a safe that is suitable for your needs and provides a high level of security for your valuables.

For especially valuable items, a safe deposit box at your local bank is a secure option, with most major banks offering this service for a fee. At home, make sure your safe is either too heavy to move or securely bolted to the floor or wall, and consider installing security cameras and alarms for added protection. It’s also wise to avoid obvious hiding spots like bedrooms or bathrooms, as these are often targeted by burglars.

Knowing the true value of your jewellery is just as important as keeping it safe. Seek out a registered valuer, such as a member of the Valuers Registration Board (VRB), to obtain an official valuation certificate. This documentation is crucial for both insurance and resale purposes. Because jewellery values can fluctuate with changes in gold prices and market trends, it’s a good idea to have your pieces re-appraised every two to three years. Keep all receipts, certificates, and photographs of your jewellery in a secure digital location, such as cloud storage or a USB drive stored in your safe.

Insurance is another key consideration. Standard home and contents insurance policies in New Zealand often have sub-limits for jewellery, sometimes as low as $500 to $1,500 per item, so it’s important to review your policy wording to understand your coverage. You may wish to consider a standalone jewellery insurance policy or add a valuable articles schedule to your existing policy. Look for coverage that includes accidental loss, theft, and damage, both at home and while travelling. Some insurers offer automatic temporary cover for new jewellery—often up to 30 days—but you’ll need to notify them and provide documentation within that period. If you plan to travel with your jewellery, check that your policy covers international loss or theft.

Regular maintenance and cleaning will help keep your jewellery in top condition. Have your pieces professionally cleaned and checked by a jeweller at least once a year to spot any loose stones or worn clasps before they become a problem. For day-to-day care, use a soft cloth and mild soapy water, and avoid harsh chemicals, especially on delicate stones like opals and pearls. It’s also wise to remove your jewellery before swimming, gardening, or heavy lifting to prevent accidental damage.

Finally, be cautious about sharing details of your jewellery on social media. Avoid posting detailed photos or information that could attract unwanted attention, and don’t tag your home or regular locations when sharing images of your valuables.

By following these steps, you’ll help ensure your treasured jewellery remains safe, insured, and in excellent condition for years to come.

For those who appreciate the true value of their jewellery and collectibles, standard insurance may not offer the level of protection or service you expect. That’s where Chubb Masterpiece^® coverage stands apart.

Masterpiece provides comprehensive insurance, worldwide coverage, and expert claims support—ensuring your most precious items are safeguarded with the same care and attention you give them.