Avoid heartache this Valentines Day

Romantic Brits are set to spend a staggering £1.32 billion on Valentine's gifts this year of which, £467 million will be spent on jewellery alone. Direct Line is urging those that do decide to lavish their loved one with diamonds, gold or other expensive presents to protect these cherished items.

Valentine’s Day is likely to be the most popular day for receiving jewellery. With an average ring costing about £1055, there are £2.58 billion worth of engagement rings being flashed on fingers by Brits every year which may need extra protection.

Andrew Lowe, head of Direct Line Home Insurance, said, “Insurance is probably the last thing on most people's mind when they are showering their loved ones with gifts on Valentine's Day. Having the right cover in place could prevent heartache if the unthinkable happens and that precious item is lost or stolen."

Direct Line’s top tips for protecting your valuable gifts:

Keep some form of proof of purchase such as receipts
Get your jewellery valued periodically and update your insurer
Keep photographs of your items and keep it with your policy
Keep items that you aren’t wearing in a locked compartment such as a safe
If your jewellery is lost or stolen, inform your insurer immediately
High value items often need to be specified to ensure they have adequate cover - check with your insurer if you need to do this
Check with your insurer if adding the items will affect the security requirements at your home, for example the locks on doors and windows

Direct Line's home contents policy can cover items such as jewellery and watches in the home as standard. Our optional personal possessions cover is available to cover these items outside of the home.

For more information, log on to directline.com.