Jewellery is the most commonly mislaid valuable when travelling, according to a recent VIP Ski / VIP Chalets survey. And when fine jewellery is lost or stolen abroad, only one per cent is recovered — a depressing thought when luxury accessories often hold sentimental as well as commodity value.
Luxury goods experts at Dawsons Auctioneers share 5 tips to help make sure your precious possessions don’t become a statistic.
1. Keep Jewellery Out of Sight
No matter which mode of transport you’re using, always keep valuable jewellery out of sight and in a bag you’re carrying — not in overhead racks on trains or planes. Watch and jewellery rolls are always a good idea.
2. Travel Only with Essentials
Only travel with what you expect to wear to minimise risk, and think twice about pricier items. The safety of your destination should also influence that decision.
3. Use Separate Storage
Keeping multiple jewellery items together increases the risk of breakage and scratching.
“Use individual pouches or a travel jewellery case with proper compartments,” advises Jonathan Pratt, Managing Director at Dawsons Auctioneers and BBC antiques expert. “This protects delicate settings and chains from damage and knotting, and means you can quickly account for every piece when packing up to leave. The more organised you are, the less likely you are to forget or lose something valuable.”
4 Verify Insurance Before Travelling
Expensive jewellery usually must be specified in insurance policies, with up-to-date valuations. Make sure you have these in place, and check which other cover applies in your travel insurance policy.
Lock valuables in the hotel safe, as their loss will likely not be covered if items are left unsecured.
5. Watch for Weather Risks
Cold temperatures can cause fingers and wrists to shrink, causing rings to slip off and bracelets to loosen. Conversely, in hot weather, watch bands may feel too tight, and leather straps can be uncomfortable.
“If possible, put your wrist pieces on a smaller link before travelling, and avoid wearing rings in freezing conditions,” advises Jonathan. “Beaches are the top location for jewellery loss — from greasy hands covered in sun cream to swimming in the cold water. You don’t want to lose your wedding ring on your honeymoon!”
If the Worst Does Happen
If luxury jewellery or watches are lost or stolen while travelling:
- Report it to the local police and obtain a case number.
- Notify your insurer as soon as possible.
- Contact the transport provider for items lost in transit.
- Alert your host if valuables have disappeared from a family member’s or friend’s home.
