Going away on the Easter bank holiday? Nilesh Rakholia, jewellery expert and founder of Abelini, has shared exactly how to care for your precious jewellery collection to help keep them safe while travelling…
1. Prevent tangled necklaces with his hack
Nilesh says: “Necklaces can get tangled at the best of times, so how can you keep them safe while travelling?
“We recommend using a simple trick that involves using a small plastic bag. Simply lower the chain into the bag, leaving the end of the necklace with the clasp outside the bag. You can line your necklaces up in this way in a plastic bag and any tangling of your favourite necklaces will be avoided.”
2. Store jewellery in this safe space
Nilesh says: “Make sure to keep your jewellery out of direct sunlight as this can bleach and damage delicate jewellery. For example, silver tarnishes when exposed to direct sunlight and topaz, opals, and amethyst can fade or change colour when exposed to heat from the sun.
“The most secure place to store your diamond jewellery safe is in a jewellery box with divided sections. Just remember to never keep diamonds in the same case or box section with other jewellery as diamonds can easily scratch another diamond when in contact with each other.”
3. Research your destination
Nilesh says: “When travelling with anything of value, it’s always worth doing research on the safety of your holiday destination. Taking jewellery on holiday will always carry some risk. If your destination is known for pickpockets, or your instinct is to not wear your jewellery out, then it’s recommended to keep these pieces secure in your hotel safe.
“If you’re heading on holiday, consider swapping for a cheaper alternative to keep your precious jewellery pieces safe.”
4. Always take your rings off before bed
While sleeping in your rings may seem like a good idea on holiday – especially if you’re prone to losing things – Nilesh reveals why you might want to re-think this…
Nilesh says: “To increase the longevity of your ring, we always recommend taking them off before going to bed as sleeping with your ring on can put pressure on the band, causing it to lose shape. Be careful if you have a diamond ring, because it may catch on your hair or on the duvets while you sleep, which can damage the prongs and cause the diamonds to loosen.”
5. Keep your toiletry bag away from your jewellery
Nilesh says: “Lotions and perfumes and even sun cream contain various chemicals that can react with metal alloys, damage gems beyond repair, and get into crevices of jewellery like chains and rings, making them dull and dingy. To avoid this, make sure to apply make-up, hair spray and perfume before putting on your jewellery.
6. Avoid contact with water
Nilesh continues: “Whether you’re taking a shower, or swimming in a pool or the sea, we always advise removing jewellery.
“Saltwater, chlorine and chemicals from soap and shampoo can all damage your jewellery, especially metals, pearls and gems. Pearls soften when soaked in water while chlorine damages and discolours metals, and deteriorates the polish of gemstones. Water also causes your fingers to shrink, which makes it easy for jewellery to slip off and get lost.”
