Hello.
I am looking for an antique engagement ring from the
Art Deco and Retro Modern Era. I definitely want a ring
that still contains the original diamond and not a replacement.
I have been trying to do some homework about antique
engagement rings before my purchase and I've learned
that the rings cannot be insured. Is this true? Thanks
for the help! ~P. Entwistle, Annapolis, MD
Dear
Ms. Entwistle,
No,
that's not true. All jewelry can be appraised and insured.
To insure jewelry items you must request a rider on
your homeowners insurance. If you do not own a home
you can also get the rider through renters insurance.
If you still live with your parents, they may be able
to help with a rider on their insurance until you and
your new husband are on your own. The rider does cost
extra it is not included in normal homeowners or renters
insurance.
The
appraisal of an older ring, just like an type of jewelry,
is based on the value of the materials within the ring
and the reconstruction of the ring in today's market
or Retail Replacement Value.
The
period that you are asking about Art Deco c.1930 to
Retro Modern c.1940 is not considered "Antique".
In the US, the term antique is used for all jewelry
over 100 years old. In Europe, the term antique is used
for items produced before 1830 or before the Industrial
Revolution and before machines began to produce goods
and so all the work was done by hand. The proper term
for the time periods that you want would be Vintage,
Period or Estate Jewelry.
Click here for ADAM's Certified Appraisers
