A client dropped one of two 19th-century Chinese vases. Individually, they were worth $5,000 each. As a pair, they were worth $25,000. He expected a check for $20,000. The insurer offered $5,000. He didn’t have the “Pairs and Sets” clause activated properly.
Key Takeaways
- The Sum is Greater than the Parts: In art, pairs (candlesticks, vases) are worth exponentially more together.
- The “surrender” Option: To get the full pair value, you usually have to give the surviving (undamaged) piece to the insurance company.
- Repair vs. Replace: If they can repair the broken one to “perfect” condition, they won’t pay the set value.
- Scheduling: You must schedule them as “One Pair of Vases,” not “Two Vases.”
The “Why” (The Trap): The Proportional Loss Clause
Standard policies state: “In case of loss to a pair or set, we may elect to: 1) Repair or replace any part to restore the pair… or 2) Pay the difference between actual cash value of property before and after the loss.”
They will try to pay you the “diminished value.” But proving that the remaining vase is now worth less requires a fight. The best policies allow you to treat it as a Total Loss.
[IMAGE: Graphic showing the math: Vase A (
5k)+VaseB(5k)+VaseB(
5k) = Pair Value ($25k). Loss of A = $20k claim, not $5k]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I asked how they handle the “Surviving Spouse” of a pair.
1. Liberty Mutual (Standard)
- The Offer: Pay to fix the broken one. If not fixable, pay the replacement cost of one vase.
- The Result: You are left with one vase and a small check. Massive financial loss.
2. Cincinnati Insurance
- The Offer: They offer a clear choice. Surrender the remaining item and get paid the full set value, OR keep the remaining item and get paid the difference in value.
- Verdict: Fair and flexible.
3. PURE
- The Offer: “Pair and Set” coverage is standard. They assume the set value is destroyed if one is lost.
- Verdict: Best for collectors.
Comparison Table
| Scenario | Standard Policy | Premium Policy (Pairs Clause) |
| Break one of a pair | Pays for 1 item | Pays for full pair |
| Disposition of survivor | You keep it | You surrender it to insurer |
| Valuation | ACV of single item | Agreed Value of Set |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check Your Schedule: Does it say “2 Vases @ $5k each” or “1 Pair of Vases @ $25k”? Change it to the latter immediately.
- Do Not Throw Away Shards: The insurer needs to verify it was the actual item. Keep the pieces.
- Appraise as a Set: Ensure your appraisal explicitly states the value is based on them being a pair.
- Decide on Surrender: If you love the surviving piece, negotiate to keep it and take a partial payout. If you want the money, be ready to ship the survivor to the insurer.
FAQ Section
Does this apply to jewelry (earrings)?
Yes. Losing one earring is the classic example. You surrender the remaining earring to get the full insured value of the pair.
What about triptych paintings?
Same rule. If one panel of a 3-panel painting is destroyed, the whole work is ruined. You should be paid the total value.
Can I buy back the survivor?
Often yes. The insurer will sell it as salvage. You can bid on it.