43% Surge in High-Value Jewelry Theft Cases: Aviva Reports

A 43% annual surge in high-value claims for jewellery theft has caught the attention of Aviva, the insurance giant. As Valentine’s Day approaches on February 14, Aviva has issued a warning about the increasing incidents of theft involving luxury watches, bespoke jewellery items, expensive bracelets, and diamond rings. The data was gathered from Aviva Private Clients high-net-worth claims over the course of 2022 and 2023. The thefts range from muggings targeting expensive watches to opportunistic thieves stealing jewellery from cars, as well as burglaries where homes are broken into while residents are on vacation. Shockingly, some residents have been present at the property when the thieves entered. Reports indicate that thieves have broken car and house windows, disabled alarm systems, and even forcibly opened safes in order to access valuable jewelry. Rupert Damms, the head of risk management north for Aviva, stresses the importance of taking precautions to safeguard personal valuables. He advises people to carefully choose when and where they wear expensive jewelry, as opportunistic thieves often target individuals in public. Damms also emphasizes the significance of properly securing homes by locking doors and windows, using insurance-approved security systems and safes to store jewelry. Additionally, he highlights the potential danger of underinsurance, urging individuals to obtain the appropriate coverage and maintain up-to-date valuations. Aviva offers several tips for keeping jewelry safe, including purchasing the right insurance, getting regular valuations, being discreet and vigilant when wearing jewelry, storing jewelry securely, checking for wear and tear, being cautious with repairs, and staying informed about local crime trends. With these precautions in mind, individuals can better protect themselves and their precious jewelry amidst the rising prevalence of theft.