I bought a $40,000 French violin and needed serious coverage. I spent a week grilling agents from the two titans of the classical world: Clarion and Heritage. Both promise “All Risk” coverage, but the difference lies in how they handle devaluation and who allows you to fix the instrument.
Key Takeaways
- Heritage is the Collector’s Choice: Heritage (Ellis Hershman) is widely considered the gold standard for high-value (> $100k) instruments and dealers. They understand “Devaluation” (loss of value after repair) better than anyone.
- Clarion is the Working Musician’s Choice: Clarion (Andrea) often has slightly lower premiums for instruments under $50k and a very user-friendly online portal.
- Right to Repair: Both allow you to choose your luthier (vital!), unlike standard carriers who might force you to a “network” shop.
- Inflation Impact: In 2026, both carriers have raised rates on bows specifically, due to the scarcity of Pernambuco wood and high breakage rates.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “Diminished Value.”
If your $40,000 violin has a crack in the back, you can fix the crack for $2,000. But the violin is no longer a “pristine” $40,000 instrument. It might now be worth $30,000 on the market.
Standard insurance pays the $2,000 repair and closes the case.
You just lost $10,000 in equity.
You need a policy that pays the $2,000 repair PLUS the $10,000 devaluation. Both Clarion and Heritage do this, but you must ask for it.
The Investigation (My Analysis of the Giants)
I requested quotes for a $40k Violin and $5k Bow.
Heritage Insurance Services
- Premium: ~$250/year.
- Service: Personal, old-school. You talk to a human who knows violins.
- Claims: They have a reputation for paying massive devaluation claims without fighting.
Clarion Associates
- Premium: ~$235/year.
- Service: More automated/digital. Good for the modern player.
- Claims: Excellent, but slightly more bureaucratic on the appraisal requirements.
Anderson (The Third Option)
- Analysis: Anderson is also excellent, often using the same underwriters (Hanover/Chubb) as the others. Very competitive for orchestras.
[IMAGE: Side-by-side comparison of a policy declaration page from Heritage vs. Clarion]
Comparison Table
| Feature | Heritage | Clarion | Homeowners Rider |
| Devaluation Coverage | Excellent | Good | None |
| Luthier Choice | Yours | Yours | Theirs (Often) |
| Shipping Coverage | Included | Included | Excluded |
| Premium (approx) | 0.6% of value | 0.55% of value | 0.4% – 1.0% |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Get a Current Appraisal: You cannot buy this insurance without a written appraisal from a reputable shop (e.g., Bein & Fushi, Robertson’s). It must be less than 2 years old.
- Photograph Condition: Take hi-res photos of every inch of the varnish. If you scratch it later, you need proof it wasn’t there before.
- Choose Based on Value: If your instrument is <
20k,Clarioniseasyandfast.If>20k,Clarioniseasyandfast.If>100k, go Heritage for the devaluation expertise. - Check the “Unattended Vehicle” Clause: Both carriers have strict rules about leaving instruments in cars. Read this section twice.
FAQ
Do they cover me if I loan it to a student?
Yes, usually, but check the “Entrustment” clause.
Is the case covered?
Yes, usually as an accessory.
What if I travel internationally?
Both offer worldwide coverage, but you must keep the instrument in your possession (or check it in a flight case).