
Jewelry insurance claim investigation can be a lengthy and frustrating process, but it's essential to understand the importance of prevention.
A single misstep during the claim process can result in a denied claim or a significantly reduced payout, as seen in the case of a lost diamond necklace valued at $20,000, where the policyholder failed to provide proof of purchase, resulting in a payout of only $5,000.
To avoid such situations, it's crucial to keep all relevant documentation, including receipts, appraisals, and certificates of authenticity, in a safe and easily accessible place.
Prevention is key, and being proactive can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Jewelry Insurance Fraud
Jewelry insurance fraud can take many forms, but it often involves staging a fake theft or robbery to collect insurance money.
Individuals may claim that someone broke into their home or vehicle and took their jewelry, or that the jewelry was taken in a mugging and armed robbery.

In some cases, the jewelry may not even exist, or the receipts provided to support the claim may be fake.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau partners with local law enforcement to identify suspicious claims and find fraud.
Jewelry insurance fraud can carry serious penalties, including felony charges under New York law for claims over $1,000.
Making false claims for under $1,000 is a misdemeanor, and filing a false police report can also lead to charges.
Insurance carriers can prevent jewelry fraud by conducting thorough investigations and looking for patterns in claims data.
Scammers often target multiple insurance providers to avoid being detected, and insurers use data analysis to identify suspicious claims.
Jewelry insurance fraud is on the rise, with over $1 billion in jewelry "disappearing" annually in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
Investigation Process
The investigation process for jewelry insurance claims can be a complex and time-consuming task. Insurers typically review the claim to determine the cause of the loss, the value of the item, and the extent of the damage.

Your policy documents will outline the specific requirements for filing a claim, such as providing receipts, appraisals, and police reports. The insurer may also request additional information, like photos or witness statements.
Insurers may use various methods to determine the value of the item, including consulting with experts, reviewing market data, and examining the item's condition. This helps ensure that the payout is fair and accurate.
The investigation process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the claim and the availability of information.
Choosing an Investigative Group
Consider hiring a group with experience in jewelry industry claims, as they will be more familiar with the specific types of losses and the insurers' requirements.
An investigative group with a good reputation and a track record of successful claims handling can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
You can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 for an investigative group's services, depending on the complexity of the case and the group's experience.

Be wary of groups that charge too little, as they may not have the necessary expertise or resources to handle your case effectively.
A reputable investigative group will have a clear understanding of the insurance company's policies and procedures, which can help them navigate the claims process more efficiently.
Their expertise can also help you avoid common pitfalls that might otherwise delay or deny your claim.
Consequences and Prevention
Jewelry insurance fraud can carry serious penalties, including felony charges under New York law for amounts over $1,000.
Making false claims for under $1,000 is a misdemeanor, and charges can become progressively more serious with higher dollar amounts at stake.
Filing a false police report is also a crime under NY Penal Law Article 240, with charges ranging from first to third degree offenses depending on past records.
If you're involved in a jewelry insurance claim investigation, it's essential to know that attempting to improperly obtain funds by making a false claim can result in conviction, regardless of whether the insurance company pays out or not.
Jewelry Insurance Fraud Penalties

Jewelry insurance fraud can carry serious penalties, and it's essential to understand the risks involved. In New York, making false claims for under $1,000 is a misdemeanor.
If you're accused of making a claim for losses that shouldn't be covered or of staging a robbery, you could face serious criminal penalties. The National Insurance Crime Bureau partners with local law enforcement to identify suspicious claims and find fraud.
New York law makes it a felony offense under Penal Code Article 176 to engage in insurance fraud when more than $1,000 is at stake. This means that if you're involved in a scheme to improperly obtain funds by making a false claim under your jewelry insurance, you can be convicted of jewelry insurance fraud.
Filing a false police report is also a crime, and depending on your past record, you could be charged with first, second, or third degree offenses. This means that anyone involved in the scheme, from a person who hides the jewelry to someone who pretends to be a theft and steals the jewelry, can be charged with all criminal acts involved in the scam.
The laws of New York are clear: it doesn't matter if the insurance fraud is successful and the insurance company actually pays out or not. If you attempt to improperly obtain funds by making a false claim, you can be convicted of jewelry insurance fraud.
NY Lawyer Explains Consequences of Jewelry Insurance Fraud

Jewelry insurance fraud is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. Insurance providers often suspect claims made on jewelry insurance policies are fraudulent.
Individuals accused of making false claims or staging robberies can face serious criminal penalties. The National Insurance Crime Bureau partners with local law enforcement to identify suspicious claims and find fraud.
Jewelry insurance fraud usually takes the form of staging a fake theft of watches, rings, necklaces, and other items covered by an insurance policy. In some cases, the jewelry may not even exist, and the owner will provide fake receipts or claims.
The U.S. Department of Justice reports that over $1 billion in jewelry "disappears" annually, which represents 70% of all stolen personal property. This staggering number highlights the growing problem of jewelry fraud.
A person can quickly make a profit of tens of thousands of dollars or more by staging a fake theft and making a claim. This can happen with little investment and minimal risk of criminal penalty.
If you are accused of making a claim for losses that shouldn’t be covered or of staging a robbery, contacting a lawyer is the best option you have for trying to stay out of jail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggers an insurance investigation?
Inconsistencies or delayed claims can trigger an insurance investigation. This may lead to a closer review of your case to verify its legitimacy
Does jewelry insurance go up if you file a claim?
Filing a claim for stolen or damaged jewelry may increase your policy premiums. Consider your coverage options carefully to avoid higher costs.
Sources
- https://www.ohio-insurance-lawyer.com/insurance-denied-theft-claims-examination-under-oath.php
- https://nyccriminallawyer.com/fraud-charge/insurance-fraud/jewelry-insurance-fraud/
- https://www.law.com/dailyreportonline/2024/10/09/jewelry-fraud-is-on-the-rise/
- https://www.garda.com/en-ca/articles/the-role-of-investigators-in-fraudulent-insurance-claims
- https://www.iigpi.com/services/special-risk-claims/jewelers-block-claims/
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