I wanted to insure my $12,000 engagement ring.
Lemonade quoted me $12/month (add-on to renters).
Lavalier quoted me $18/month (standalone).
I went with Lemonade. When I lost the ring, Lemonade’s claims bot was fast, but they sent me a check for the market value of a similar ring, which was $2,000 less than I paid. I realized “specialized” means better valuation.
Key Takeaways
- Generalist vs. Specialist: Lemonade/State Farm are generalists. They treat jewelry like a TV. Lavalier/Jewelers Mutual/Brunk are specialists. They treat jewelry like art.
- Claims Handling: Specialists work with your jeweler to replace the item exactly. Generalists often push for their “network” vendors or cash settlements based on wholesale prices.
- Coverage Breadth: Specialists cover “Mysterious Disappearance” by default. Generalists might require an extra rider or exclude it.
- The “Same Kind and Quality” Promise: Specialists are better at matching brand names and specific diamond grades.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “Commodity Pricing.”
To Lemonade, a 1ct diamond is a commodity.
To Lavalier, a 1ct Hearts on Fire diamond is a specific brand asset.
If you have branded or vintage jewelry, generalist insurers will undervalue it. They look at the specs, not the nuance.
The Investigation (My Analysis of the Policies)
I compared the fine print.
Lemonade
- Pros: Cheap, fast app.
- Cons: “Extra Coverage” is good, but their valuation model leans toward replacement cost efficiency (saving them money).
Lavalier (Berkley)
- Pros: Backed by Berkley (huge insurer). Specific focus on jewelry. Inflation guard included.
- Cons: Slightly higher premium.
Brunk
- Pros: High-end specialist (often commercial/dealer focused, but does personal). Very good for high-value collections.
[IMAGE: Comparison graphic: Lemonade logo (App interface) vs Lavalier logo (Jeweler handshake)]
Comparison Table
| Feature | Lemonade | Lavalier / JM |
| Claim Process | AI / Bot | Human Specialist |
| Replacement | Cash / Network | Your Jeweler |
| Premium | $ | |
| Best For | Modern/Generic | Vintage/Branded |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Quote Both: Get a price from Lemonade and JM.
- Read the “Valuation” Clause: Does it say “Cash Settlement” or “Repair/Replace”?
- Choose Based on Item: For a standard Tiffany setting, Lemonade is fine (standard specs). For a custom antique, go Specialist.
- Check Bundling: Lemonade requires a base renters policy. Lavalier is standalone (no renters needed).
FAQ
Can I switch insurers?
Yes, anytime. You get a pro-rated refund.
Does Lavalier require an appraisal?
For items over $5k, yes. Lemonade might ask for receipts.
Who pays faster?
Lemonade is famous for speed (seconds). Specialists take days but might pay more.