Golden rules for looking after your holiday jewellery

NO MATTER how carefully you pack holiday jewellery, it always seems to disappear into the depths of the suitcase or binds itself into impossible knots.

But a few simple tricks can ensure your bling gets to your destination – and back again – in tip-top condition.

To avoid the exasperation of finding a tight tangle in a chain necklace, before you set off simply thread one end through a drinking straw, then fasten. For slim bracelets, cut the straw down, slip the bracelet through and fasten.

A smart way to keep earrings safe and in matching pairs is by using a large button. Hook each one through the button’s holes and fasten at the back.

According to a recent survey, more than 25 per cent of us has lost a piece of jewellery while travelling. To protect it from going missing at the airport, always pack jewellery in hand luggage and consider insuring expensive pieces.

Some policies will cover your jewellery while you’re overseas. However, in many cases you may need to add valuable items by calling your insurer.

Robert Cuomo, of Hatton Jewellers, warns that jewellery can also get damaged while on holiday, but there are ways to protect it. He adds: ‘Ensure suncream is fully absorbed into your skin before putting jewellery on. And when it comes to swimming, chlorine is known to damage and discolour precious metals, causing it to become weak. Sterling silver can also begin to tarnish when in contact with chlorine. Swimming in the sea is also far from ideal, as salt water can erode your jewellery, which can lead to weakening.’