Neglia Services offers three different ways of identifying the objects which are being registered. One is a high tech, holographic tag or seal which has a unique number and five levels of built-in security. Suitable for flat art and larger objects, the tag is acid free and will not damage artwork. The tag is virtually unforgeable. It cannot be removed without rendering the tag unusable and, if removed, it leaves behind identifiable traces. There is also a MicroTag™ which is one sixteenth of an inch in diameter. It carries the same levels of security but is used for smaller objects or for covert tagging of items. The 2D barcode contains a unique identifier and is readable with a special device. The third method of identification is laser engraving which is used for jewelry, small metal objects, gemstones, even polymers and paper, etc. The engraving is of a unique identifier and also includes 2D barcoded information. The holographic tag currently costs $20.00, the Microtag $30 and laser engraving can cost as much as $150 per item, depending on what the object is and the logistics involved. These prices are based on a full service registration process.
Which ever method is used, the object is registered in the Fine Art Registry secure database, together with photos and full description, value, certificates of authenticity and any other relevant documents. The items can be shown in a portfolio on the website or hidden from view by the owner. The record is permanent. When items are sold or change hands, ownership is transferred securely online so that provenance of all pieces can be maintained. Items which are lost or stolen are listed as such and can be found online by police forces or potential buyers doing their due diligence.
The Neglia Services system for marking and registering fine art, jewelry, collectibles, and other valuables is comparable to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) system for vehicles: a virtually indelible unique marking which matches a record in a secure database.
The value of this system to insurer and insured alike is clear. Using this system, someone's entire collection of fine art, jewelry, etc. can be tagged and registered quite inexpensively and the owner can simply refer the insurer to their portfolio on the website for a complete list of items along with photos and full description. In the event of a loss, there can be no question about the existence of the item or its ownership since it is registered in a permanent, secure database.
Jewelry – a Case in Point
This service is also of considerable use to jewelers as well as owners of jewelry. Neglia Services, a jewelry and collectibles appraisal and replacement company that works directly with the insurance companies, is partnering with Fine Art Registry, using the Fine Art Registry technology to provide a unique service to its customers through its national networks of jewelers and specialists in other fields, such as fine art and collectibles. Rich Negilia, CEO of Neglia Services, says, “What is unique about the Fine Art Registry system is that it offers both the secure marking and tagging of valuables with the permanent record in the database, making it perfect for our customers’ needs.”
Summary
Technology has opened the door to accurately and securely identifying and registering fine art, collectibles, jewelry, and other valuables. All collectors are advised to make use of this technology. Whichever system you choose, the result can be potentially lower insurance premiums, better organization of valuables, a smoother, more secure relationship between insured and insurer, and peace of mind all around.