How to Protect Your Jewellery While Travelling, According to an Expert

Wondering the best way to safely care for your favourite rings, bracelets and necklaces while on vacation? Jewellery expert Megan Kirkwood shares her tried-and-true tips for travelling with accessories — including the importance of intentional packing, when to rely on replicas and more.

Q: How can I avoid damaging my jewellery (and other headaches) while travelling?

A: Legend has it that Elizabeth Taylor was swimming on the Côte d’Azur when husband number three, Mike Todd, surprised her with a stunning set of ruby and diamond jewels, which she promptly popped on before sumptuously diving back into the pool. While this certainly sets a glamorous scene, there are a few ground rules you should keep in mind when you’re taking your own treasures on vacay.

DO lean on versatile, gem-free pieces

Sculptural and dramatic bangles, hoops and rings will not only stack well and complement everything on your packing list but also save you the stress of fussing with tangled chains and high-maintenance gems.

DON’T venture into the pool with your engagement ring

While diamonds, rubies and sapphires are the most holiday-proof jewels, due to their hardness and overall durability, you should always avoid exposing any gemstones or precious metals to chlorine for an extended period of time because the chemical can cause tarnishing and even corrosion.

DO Consider replicas and other synthetic stand-ins

Think about packing easy pieces that feature cubic zirconia or moissanite; both are budget-friendly synthetic materials that just happen to have more fire (the ability to refract light) than diamonds. Use them to have a replica of your engagement ring (or any of your other favourite pieces) made and we guarantee that no one will know the difference. Any jeweller who makes custom pieces can get you started.

DON’T wear delicate or organic gems on the beach

While seemingly perfect for a tropical escape, so-called organic gems (as they come from living things), including coral, pearl and mother-of-pearl, can quickly be damaged by sand and SPF and should be saved for sunset cocktail hour instead. You may also want to leave vulnerable stones such as turquoise, kunzite, amethyst and opal out of your holiday plans because they can fade — or, in the case of opal, dehydrate and crack — under the sun.

DO pack intentionally

Stash your jewellery in your carry-on inside a sturdy case that will keep its shape while you’re on the move. For extra protection, place each item in an individual silk pouch first, which will stave off tangling and scratching and ensure that stones such as pearls, opals and emeralds retain optimum moisture levels. In a pinch? Lay your pieces flat on a silk scarf and carefully roll them up before safely storing them.

DO confirm insurance details and take photos

Your engagement and wedding rings (and any other high-value jewellery) should always be appraised and insured—and not just for travel. You’ll also want to double-check the details of your policy to make sure you know exactly how you’ll be covered for any potential loss or damage. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, remember to keep your jewels locked in your safe whenever possible. Snapping a quick pic as a record of what you’ve brought can also save the day and ensure that you don’t leave anything behind.

Pleasure Trip

Consider packing these vacation-worthy pieces when you’re in paradise.

Pandora cubic zirconia and 14 karat gold plated necklace and pendant

Bulgari 18 karat rose gold ring

David Yurman sterling silver bracelet

Van Cleef & Arpels 18 karat rose gold, ruby, coral and diamond bracelet

Leah Alexandra sterling silver hoop earrings

Octavia Elizabeth 18 karat yellow gold and diamond anklet

Treasure Trove

Travel with ease with the help of some stylish storage.

Mejuri small jewellery box

This compact, handcrafted leather jewellery box features two small removable trays for optimal organization and a treated interior that prevents tarnishing. Plus, its monogram option offers a unique personal touch.

Tiffany & Co. small jewellery box

Outfitted in the jeweller’s iconic Tiffany blue leather, this petite box features a gemstone-inspired silhouette, which couldn’t be a more appropriate shape for storing all your most prized jewels.

Panthère de Cartier jewellery box

It just makes sense that your finest accessories would require only the best jewellery box around. If you’re looking for a luxurious storage option, you can’t go wrong with this Cartier selection crafted from lacquered wood with a lush interior lining.

Wolf large zip case

Ideal for transporting your longer necklaces and dangly earrings, this large case offers a zippered enclosure and a tarnish-resistant interior lining to safely secure all of your accessories when you’re on-the-go.

This article first appeared in FASHION’s November 2024 issue. Find out more here.