Happy Stories From our customers

In addition to the millions of homes that have been affected by the devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy, countless businesses have also been touched, including jewelers.

We found this helpful piece in JCK that details what jewelers specifically should do during this time of recovery:

At press time, there were no reports of anyone in the industry killed or injured as the result of the storm. But it’s quite likely that many businesses have sustained serious damage.

Any seriously affected store should apply for a low-interest loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration, says public affairs specialist Yvette Jeffrey.

“The loans have two purposes,” she says. “The first is to repair and replace your buildings, machinery, supplies, inventory. The other can help you meet any financial obligations, to make sure you cover your payroll and your business stays in business before you settle with your insurance.”

Business can apply at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela, or by calling 800-659-2955.

The Insurance Institute for Safety offers the following tips for companies with damage to their business:

– Compile a description of any damage you may have sustained. Photograph or video any damage.

– Contact your insurance agent, broker, or company as soon as possible to report any damage. Have your policy number handy.

Source: JCK Jewelers

– Keep safety in mind. If you feel your building is unsafe, have it inspected before you enter. Make sure any clean-up is done with care for everyone’s health and safety, using safety items such as protective eyewear, gloves, hardhats, and dust masks or respirators. If necessary, hire a professional cleanup crew.

– If your insurance contains a “business interruption” clause, you need to specify what is required for your business to return to normal, as well as regular expenses (payroll, etc.).

Jewelers Mutual customers may call 800-558-6411 or send an e-mail to YourInsuranceExpert@jminsure.com.

Additional resources supplied by the U.S. Small Business Administration:

FEMA: disasterassistance.gov

Agility Recovery Solutions: agilityrecovery.com

Disaster cleanup: sba.gov/content/disaster-cleanup 

Disaster resource guide from the IRS for individuals and businesses: irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p2194.pdf

Association of Small Business Development Centers: asbdc-us.org

Here’s a little story recently sent to us from a client:

I told my friend Corrine after a recent break-up that I had never received any jewelry from my ex-boyfriend after 6 years of being together. Corrine was surprised and sad for me. She loved jewelry and seemed to attract beautiful pieces like a magnet, especially from her husband, who often custom designed pieces especially for her.

Weeks later, I receivedl this beautiful pendant necklace in the mail with a “love” letter from my friend, professing her undying friendship. I was so touched, I cried. I wear it all the time now. Our friendship has weathered many relationships…we should share the same tokens we appreciate from our romantic partners, right? We deserve it.

Key of Love Necklace with Pave Set Stones