Category: Fine Arts and Collectibles

Does a Thrift Shop Need Fine Art and Collectibles Insurance?

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At Clockwork Insurance Services, we provide high-quality insurance solutions for businesses and residents throughout Metairie, LA. For example, we can help your thrift shop secure insurance for fine art and collectibles to protect your valuable items. But do you really need this type of coverage? Absolutely!

Why Your Thrift Shop Needs Fine Art and Collectibles Insurance

A successful thrift shop often encounters unique and valuable items daily, some of which can be worth a significant amount of money. Investing in fine art and collectibles insurance is a smart decision, especially if your business operates on a tight profit margin. This type of insurance covers:

  • Theft: If a valuable piece of art is stolen from your shop, this coverage can protect you. Theft is a common issue for thrift shops, particularly those in high-risk areas.
  • Damage: Protection against damage caused by events like fires, smoke exposure, or other unexpected incidents within your shop.
  • Disappearance: Coverage for scheduled items or goods that were supposed to be delivered to you but went missing during shipping. This protects both you and the sender.

However, it’s important to note that certain situations may not be covered, such as wear and tear, art displayed outside of your shop, or items exceeding your policy limits. You may be able to extend your coverage with additional options to address these exclusions.

Pay close attention to the items that come through your shop daily to determine the level of protection you need. If you frequently acquire high-value art or collectibles, investing in this insurance is essential.

We’re Ready to Help You!

If you’re looking for reliable fine art and collectibles insurance for your thrift shop, contact Clockwork Insurance Services today. We proudly serve the Metairie, LA region and offer tailored coverage to meet your business needs. Let us help you protect your valuable inventory!

Add a Warranty That Works for You and Your Customers

Posted on by Tyler Wright

Enhance the Value of Every Sale with the JM® Care Plan

As a jeweler, your goal isn’t just to sell beautiful pieces—it’s to create a buying experience that leads to lasting customer relationships, referrals, and return visits. One powerful way to elevate your service is by offering your clients a warranty at the time of purchase.

The JM® Care Plan, offered through Jewelers Mutual®, is an easy-to-implement solution that provides peace of mind to your customers and adds value to every transaction. Whether it’s a delicate engagement ring, a luxury timepiece, or an heirloom necklace, this warranty plan helps protect the jewelry your clients love.

Why Offer a Warranty at Point of Sale?

Your customers are making a significant investment in their jewelry. By offering them a comprehensive warranty from the start, you give them a sense of security that enhances their overall buying experience. A warranty:

  • Shows your commitment to their long-term satisfaction
  • Reinforces the quality and value of the items you sell
  • Reduces post-sale concerns and service issues
  • Increases average ticket value with a seamless upsell opportunity

With the JM® Care Plan, you can offer all these benefits—and more.

What Is the JM® Care Plan?

The JM® Care Plan is a one-time purchase warranty that your customers can add at the time of sale (or within 30 days of purchase). It’s designed to protect their jewelry from not only manufacturers’ defects but also traditional wear and tear and even accidental damage.

Coverage includes:

  • Ring resizing
  • Prong re-tipping
  • Rhodium plating
  • Stone tightening
  • Watch battery replacement
  • Polishing and cleaning
  • And more

The best part? All of these services are handled directly through your store, ensuring customers return to you—not a third-party repair center.

Benefits to Your Jewelry Store

💎 Boost Customer Loyalty

Customers appreciate knowing they can return to your store for hassle-free repairs and maintenance. This keeps your brand top of mind and builds trust.

💎 Differentiate Your Store

In today’s competitive market, offering a simple, in-house warranty plan makes your store stand out. 

💎 Drive Additional Revenue

The Care Plan is a value-added service that can be easily bundled into the price of a piece. It’s a natural upsell that pays off over time, both in revenue and customer retention.

💎 Keep Service In-House

Rather than referring customers to outside repair shops, the Care Plan encourages them to return to you for service. This gives you ongoing opportunities for future sales and engagement.

Ready to Offer a Better Experience?

At Clockwork Insurance Services, we go beyond traditional coverage. We work closely with jewelers to understand their full business picture—including opportunities like the JM® Care Plan that enhance customer service and store profitability.

Whether you’re looking to provide greater protection to your customers, increase your average ticket value, or just simplify post-sale service, the JM® Care Plan is the solution.

📞 Call us at 504-262-8240
🌐 Visit us at clockworkinsurance.com
🔗 Learn more about the JM® Care Plan directly at jewelersmutual.com/jeweler-care-plan

Insurance Merger or Acquisition? Time To Act

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When your insurance provider is merged with or bought by a larger company, it can often feel like you’re left in the shuffle. This is the perfect time to reassess your coverage and explore new options. Shopping around could help you identify the gaps in service and coverage that may arise from the transition. Below are some key areas where larger agencies may not be right for your business, and why it’s important to take action:

1) Competitive Costs May Be Lost

Larger insurance companies often standardize their offerings and may not have the flexibility to shop for the best rates or uncover discounts that specifically apply to your business. As a result, you could end up with a policy that doesn’t offer the most competitive pricing or the best value for your coverage needs. It’s worth revisiting your options to ensure you’re getting the most cost-effective solution available.

2) One-Size-Fits-All Solutions

When an insurance agency is acquired by a larger company, the focus often shifts to standardized policies designed for mass appeal. This means your unique business needs may not be fully addressed. The flexibility to customize policies based on the specific risks and nuances of your business may be lost in the process. It’s crucial to review your policy and determine whether it’s truly tailored to your needs or if you’re simply receiving a generic solution.

3) Customer Service Can Become Impersonal

One of the biggest frustrations with larger insurance companies is the shift toward impersonal customer service. With call centers and automated systems becoming more common, you may find it difficult to get direct answers to your questions. Navigating through long hold times, repetitive scripts, and multiple agents can leave you feeling frustrated and disconnected. Personal, timely service may become a casualty of the merger, which can significantly impact your experience as a policyholder.

4) Inconsistent Support and Lack of Dedicated Agents

In the wake of an acquisition, you may be assigned to a different representative each time you call. This lack of continuity can make it harder to develop a relationship with someone who truly understands your business and its specific needs. When you need assistance, it can be frustrating to explain your situation to a new agent who isn’t familiar with your history or the nuances of your policy. Consistency in support is critical, especially when dealing with complex insurance needs.

5) Longer Response Times

Larger insurance companies often face delays in addressing client needs due to their size and bureaucracy. What used to be a quick response from your former agency may now take much longer, especially when it comes to claims or urgent policy adjustments. If your business is growing or evolving, having timely responses and quick access to support becomes even more important.

Conclusion

When your insurance provider is merged or acquired by a larger company, the services you once relied on may change. From increased costs and impersonal service to longer response times and less tailored coverage, the shift can create significant challenges. Now is the perfect time to reassess your policy and explore options that better serve your business’s unique needs. Take action and review your coverage after a merger or acquisition.

At Clockwork Insurance, we prioritize your business’s protection and peace of mind. Let us help you navigate these changes and find the right coverage for your future.

Contact us today to learn more!

Don’t Rely On Luck: Theft Prevention Tips for Jewelers

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There are key times of the day and of the year when jewelry stores are most at risk for theft. Whether theft by employees or the public, either can be costly in time and financially. The time it takes to file a police report, get in touch with your insurance company to begin a claim and just the inconvenience of this incident along with addressing what led to this can be quite time consuming. 

Don’t rely on luck. 

Review your current theft protection plans and update them as needed. Here are some areas to review that can boost your current plan.

  1. Opening processes of your store.
  2. You should have 2 or more people during the opening of your store.
  3. Inspect the area prior to unlocking the doors
  4. Have one person keeping an eye outside while the other goes into the store, locks the door behind and checks that the store looks as it should.
  5. Processes during open hours.
  6. Security should be aware of the selling procedures your employees use and be keeping a close eye when precious pieces are brought out of cases for inspection by a customer.
  7. Employees should have a specific plan for showing jewelry and stick to it with security on the top of their mind while making a sale.
  8. Closing procedures should be followed and not be rushed. 
  9. If a phone rings, either let it go or stop closing procedures and stay inside the store to handle the call. This is just one example of a distraction that could put a store at risk.
  10. As with opening the store, 2 people should close the store, and neither should be dealing with any distractions. Employees should watch for each other and the area around them. One person should lock the store while the other watches what is going on around them.

During peak season, additional security should always be present and both security personnel and employees should watch for individuals “casing” the store. Any suspicious activity should be reported and written up. A log should be kept keeping up with any suspicious activity so that no one must rely only on memory.

Each store will have its own specific areas to address, and careful security planning is a must. Signing up with your local crime watch programs is helpful. 

Why Proper Appraisals Matter for Jewelry

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It’s Valentine’s time and new engagements are in the air along with celebrations of years spent together. A visit to your local jewelry store for a new beautiful piece of jewelry to commemorate this time is on your calendar. You may have already decided you will get insurance to cover this precious piece of jewelry but how important is the appraisal?

It is crucial to provide an accurate and current appraisal of your jewelry to your insurance company to ensure you are covered properly. Essentially the appraisal acts as a reliable document to protect your investment in jewelry by ensuring you are adequately compensated in case of loss, theft, or when selling the piece.

There are five main reasons why jewelry appraisals matter. 

  • Insurance purposes
  • Estate planning
  • Selling jewelry
  • Loan collateral
  • Authenticity verification

Because markets do fluctuate it is a good idea to get updated appraisals, in particular when you are reviewing your insurance coverage, thinking of selling or would like to use a piece of high-end jewelry as collateral.  Discuss with your insurance agent when you do a review of your coverages whether now is a good time for a new appraisal. Make sure you get a detailed report from a professional appraiser and provide this to your insurance agent. Also check that your appraisal reflects the replacement value of the piece not the purchase price.

For questions and assistance with insurance coverage for your high-end jewelry contact Clockwork Insurance Services today. Call 504-262-8240 or email info@clockworkns.com

Protect What You Treasure and Your Investment with Fine Arts and Collectibles Insurance

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The renowned playwright and poet Oscar Wilde once said, "Life imitates art." This sentiment resonates with many who appreciate and collect art and other valuable items. Such individuals not only invest in these pieces but also cherish them deeply. That’s why people choose to protect their investments and passions with policies like fine arts and collectibles insurance. The team at Clockwork Insurance Services offers such policies to help people in and around the Metairie, LA, area safeguard their prized possessions.

Secure Your Treasures and Investments with Fine Arts and Collectibles Insurance

Fine art and collectibles often hold significant value, from your most cherished painting to limited edition doll collections and more. Protecting such valuable items is wise, much like any other substantial investment. However, items like art and valuable collections hold more than just monetary value; they often have personal significance that transcends dollars and cents. This dual value prompts owners of fine art and collectibles to protect their valuables with fine arts and collectibles insurance options.

Insurance Solutions for Fine Arts and Collectibles Owners in Metairie

If you live in or around the Metairie, LA area and have questions or would like to learn more about fine arts and collectibles insurance for your art or collectibles, we’re here to help. Contact us to find out more and schedule an appointment with our friendly and experienced team for the insurance solutions you need to keep your treasured items safe at Clockwork Insurance Services today.

5 Insurance Pitfalls Jewelry Store Owners Should Avoid This Year

Posted on by Tyler Wright

As a jewelry store owner, protecting your valuable inventory and business operations is crucial. However, navigating the complexities of insurance can be challenging. Here are five common insurance pitfalls to avoid this year to ensure your business remains secure.

Underinsuring Your Inventory

One of the most significant mistakes jewelry store owners make is underinsuring their inventory. The value of jewelry can fluctuate, and it’s essential to regularly update your inventory and your policy to reflect current market values. Failing to do so can leave you with insufficient coverage in the event of a loss.

Ignoring Specialized Coverage Needs

Standard business insurance policies often don’t cover the unique risks associated with jewelry stores. Ensure you have specialized coverage, such as jewelers block insurance, which protects against theft, damage, and other specific risks. Without this, you might find yourself inadequately protected.

Overlooking Employee Theft Coverage

Employee theft is a significant risk in the jewelry industry. Many standard policies do not cover losses due to employee dishonesty. Make sure your policy includes coverage for employee theft to safeguard against internal risks.

Not Reviewing Policy Exclusions

Insurance policies often contain exclusions that could expose you to unexpected risks. It’s essential to thoroughly review your policy to identify what is and isn’t covered. Common exclusions might be related to natural disasters, security requirements, or off-premises coverage.

Failing to Update Coverage with Business Changes

As your business grows and evolves, so do your insurance needs. Whether you’re expanding your inventory, opening a new location, or investing in new security systems, it’s crucial to update your insurance policy accordingly. Talk with your agent regularly to review and adjust your coverage to match your current business situation.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can ensure that your jewelry store is well-protected and prepared for any unexpected events. If you need personalized advice or a policy review, feel free to reach out to our team at Clockwork Insurance for expert guidance tailored to your needs.

I Love It! Should I Cover It?

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The holidays are here—a season of joy, celebration, and unforgettable moments! Whether you’re planning to pop the question, unwrap a dazzling gift, or celebrate milestones with loved ones, this is a time when stunning jewelry often takes center stage. But as magical as the holidays can be, they can also bring unexpected risks to your cherished pieces.

Imagine this: You’re celebrating at a holiday party, showing off a new engagement ring or treasured heirloom, when it slips off unnoticed. Or worse, while traveling to visit family, you discover your watch or necklace has gone missing. These are moments when jewelry insurance transforms from a luxury to a necessity.

Why Insure Your Jewelry This Holiday Season?

High-value jewelry—like engagement rings, luxury watches, and family heirlooms—deserves special protection. Unfortunately, standard homeowners or renters’ insurance often falls short. Jewelry insurance offers comprehensive coverage designed to safeguard your most precious items, allowing you to wear and enjoy them with confidence.

The holiday season, with its flurry of travel, gatherings, and celebrations, is the perfect time to ensure your valuables are covered. Whether you’re dancing at a New Year’s Eve party or packing for a winter getaway, jewelry insurance offers peace of mind when it matters most.

What Does Jewelry Insurance Cover?

Here are just a few ways jewelry insurance protects your pieces:

  • Loss, Theft, or Damage: Coverage for accidental loss, theft, or repairable damage—so you’re not left empty-handed.
  • Worldwide Travel: Whether you’re skiing in Aspen or visiting relatives abroad, your jewelry can be insured wherever you go.
  • Inflation Protection: With fluctuating market values, policies can adjust to reflect your jewelry’s current worth (with appraisals).
  • Natural Disasters: Fire, floods, or other covered events don’t have to mean the end of your cherished items.

Tips for Safeguarding Your Jewelry

Before insuring your pieces, consider having them professionally appraised to establish their true value. For gifts, retain receipts or documentation for future reference. And during holiday gatherings, make a habit of storing jewelry safely when not in use.

Protect Your Holiday Joy with Clockwork Insurance

At Clockwork Insurance, we’re here to make sure your jewelry—and your holiday season—shines as brightly as it should. Coverage is more affordable than you might think, and our expert team can guide you through the process. Call us today at 504-262-8240 or email info@clockworkins.com to learn more about securing your most valuable memories

Be Prepared This Holiday Season

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As we approach the holidays our jewelers start stocking up on inventory. Hoping and anticipating a busy season of sales this is a proactive way to have what your next customer is looking for.  

In stocking up your stores you are also increasing the potential loss should the store be burglarized whether a “smash and grab” or a “grab and run” this is a good time to evaluate your asset protection.  Here are a list of recommended protections measures to consider.

-Show one item at a time.

-Keep showcases locked.

-Watch for those “casing” your store.

-Increase the number of employees on the floor when you have more customers in the store.

-Laminate your showcases. To laminate your showcases this slows down the ability for someone to use a hammer or other metal object to smash the showcase glass.

-Respond to every alarm. Anytime an alarm goes off go in person or send someone in person to check what set it off.

-Consider adding more cameras.

These are a couple of ways to ensure the holiday season is as profitable as it should be. For other tips and suggestions and to keep up with the current crime facts sign up the Clockwork Insurance newsletter: https://www.clockworkinsurance.com/crime-facts.html

Be prepared this season. Call Clockwork at 504-262-8240 for a review of your coverage.

Warranty for your Jewelry Store Customers

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Offering your jewelry store customers the option of a warranty when they first purchase their jewelry is a convenience that can lead to greater customer satisfaction. As a jewelry store owner, you seek ways to improve the customer experience which in turn leads to more sales and happy returning customers. Jewelers Mutual offers their clients this service.  With the Jewelers Mutual Care Plan, you can present this as an added benefit and include it in the purchase price of the item or items.

A warranty offers your clients the protection they desire when investing in fine jewelry. This enhances the quality of the jewelry you showcase and ensures lasting satisfaction in the choice for your customer.  The Jewelers Mutual Care Plan covers not only manufacturers’ defects, but it also includes traditional wear and tear and accidental damage. 

Clockwork Insurance Services is here to assist you with your business. Our goal is to work with our clients’ and truly understand how to add to their success. We do this with careful review of their business needs and compiling an insurance plan that not only includes the coverage the client needs but also introduces options that hopefully improve the service they can offer to their customers.

Considering adding a warranty for your customers?

Call us at 504-262-8240 or reach out to us via our website: https://www.clockworkinsurance.com

For more details and frequently asked questions read more on this warranty option available to Jewelers Mutual clients here: https://www.jewelersmutual.com/jeweler-care-plan

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