The summer is here and holiday season is now in full swing. Taking care of your jewelry might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning your getaway, but it should be a consideration to prevent theft or damage. Here are four top tips for protecting your jewelry on holiday.



1. Sunscreen SOS
While liberally applying sunscreen throughout the summer, many people do not realize that this can have consequences for their jewelry. Sunscreen can leave an unpleasant greasy coat on rings, watches, bracelets and necklaces and significantly reduce their shine. It is a good idea to replace your good jewelry with some lower value beads, a colorful fun watch or statement necklace, particularly when heading to the beach. Cleaning your jewelry much more regularly during the hot weather is also a good tip, so that it will keep it’s luster and shine.  

2. Pack Carefully
While packing for a vacation, jewelry is often left to the side or just put in to a bag as an after-thought, but a few small steps can make all the difference to preserve and increase the longevity of your favorite pieces. You’re unlikely to have your normal jewelry boxes with you, so instead bring some soft fabric pouches with you and store your different pieces separately. Take particular consideration around diamonds as they can easily scratch other jewelry. Necklaces can get tangled and easily broken when traveling if they are not kept separate from other precious pieces.

3. Watch Out
It’s tempting to do it when going for a dip, but never leave your jewelry unattended on a beach even for a few minutes. It is also not a good idea to ask a stranger to watch it for you as it is quite simply too big a risk. The advice is simple – either do not bring your jewelry to the beach; continue to wear it or leave it in the care of a friend or family member. When booking your hotel or apartment, ask if there is a safety deposit box in your room or the premises and ensure that you avail of the facility.

4. Insurance
Holiday season involves a lot of planning and often a last minute rush but one important telephone call can ensure peace of mind. When purchasing holiday insurance, ensure that the jewelry you are taking with you is covered – itemize it if possible and speak to your insurance company to set out exactly what you are taking with you. Many people forget to include their jewelry in their holiday insurance to their detriment. If you have decided to leave your jewelry in a safe place at home for the duration of your break, again confirm with your insurance company that all of it is covered.

Have a happy and safe vacation for Summer 2014!