For the discerning traveler who journeys to the finest locations in the world, jewelry is much more than ornamentation – it is a symbol of refinement, a conversation starter at a candlelit bistro in Paris, and a key element that takes you from jet lagged to jet met glam. That said, it's a unique/ own art, to know how to balance showing off your fine jewelry, versus enjoying the practicality of traveling in luxury.
An Essential Travel Jewelry Wardrobe
Today's luxury traveler understands that less is more, and this is even truer when navigating security lines from London to Singapore. The idea is that you will have a selective list of items that are curated and minimalistic, allowing flexibility and transferrable travel items for all occasions, time zones and dress codes. Learning Jewelry experts assert that resistively styled gold chain loops and diamond minimalist stud earrings (not too big, though!) are the right companions for the luxury traveler looking to look great but want to blend in; items that will work well from business meetings in the apartments of Manhattan to enjoying sunset aperitivos along the Amalfi Coast.
Diamond stud earrings can be worn in the one-to-two carat range, which is also the sweet spot for having versatility. They can elevate all the way up from a crisp white linen shirt for a yacht day in the Mediterranean, to floor length gowns at the opera house in Vienna. The best part of a stunning diamond is it will peak the light in any situation. So, whether you are being photographed at your wedding on a cliff in Santorini with beautiful white washed buildings in the background, or walking out of a Rolls Royce into Claridge's - the diamonds will be shining right along with you.
An exquisite gold chain, in yellow, white or pink gold, is the essential item for any travel jewelry wardrobe. Traditionally, the 18-inch chain works for every type of woman and occasion. It sits right at the collar bone to flatter both high neck-lines as well as plunging necklines. You can jump through anything in this chain and it stakes your look for a full day
Versatile Statement Pieces That Travel Well
While minimalism is at the heart of every luxury traveler, I think you probably need at least one statement piece for your look. I don't mean a piece of jewelry that takes over your look or feel daily—something that just draws a little attention, without feeling like a circus act. This is where a tennis bracelet, as a good example, fits perfectly in to this category. The bracelet is definitely "flashy" but small enough to wear all throughout your tennis matches or just lounging at the Burj Al Arab at the pool! A cocktail ring is also a versatile option. The difference though is that a ring can change its look quite a lot based on the gem you use. Have a sapphire that captures the memory of the Croatian coast, or an emerald piece that will capture the emerald green of New Zealand's lush South Island landscapes? One single unique piece can most certainly integrate itself into the narrative of your style through an entire visit and trip!!The beauty of rings, though, is that unlike a necklace, they are far less likely to be left behind on the dresser in a hotel room or caught in embraces with new friends at one of the many St. Bart's beach clubs.
I also feel that pearl jewelry should be expressly noted in the luxury travel space. A classic pearl stud, or a simple string of pearls, brings a different level of timeless sophistication that works particularly well in traditional luxury travel destinations and experiences. Think about afternoon tea at The Ritz London or gallery openings in Florence—and pearls have a soft luster that photographs beautifully, without the sometimes harsh glare of diamonds - making it a powerful piece of art for almost any backdrop for a frequent guest to an artist's studio or incredible location with unbelievable backdrops.
The Importance of Ethical Sourcing and Craftsmanship
The luxury traveler today values the narrative behind their jewelry just as much as its design. The provenance of the stones, the ethics of the mine that recovered the stone and the traditions of the artisans that transformed the gemstones into an object of adornment, are all of significance for the educated luxury traveler who believes that real luxury is a sense of responsibility.
Being able to purchase jewelry from the jewelry houses that recognize and value provenance and the houses that advocate and support the artisans, is an additional degree of importance in cultivating your collection. When you wear a gold bangles that has been hand-crafted by artisans steeped in a storied bespoke practice, you wear not only metal and design, but the centuries of tradition and artistry that have gone into making that accessory. This sort of mindfulness transforms jewelry from being a decorative accessory into an object of significance - a philosophy that aligns with the mindful sensibility of authentic luxury travel.
Useful Considerations in Traveling with Fine Jewelry
Great suggestion, but flying with your prized possessions will be a pain, but if we plan ahead, we will try as best as possible to eliminate those problems. I think it's very helpful to start out on a good note, you can buy a nice travel case for jewelry that has a compartment for every piece of jewelry, which would be nice for separation. Think of a case that has compartments that are soft-lined, that way the plane and the bumps reduce the chance of jagged chains and scratched stones (or a few turns through Tuscany).
Never pack fine jewelry in checked luggage.Your best pieces should stay with you in the carry on bag you plan to have on the plane. It's best to avoid the original branded boxes that show that you have valuable items. When you get to security, try to keep all jewelry (rings, and little earrings) on you as best you can, and it will never be question. If you find necklaces or bracelets, it should be easy enough to take off and place in well-known, but easily accessible, pocket inside your carry on that will be easy to access when taking those items off.
Once you arrive, be very diligent about using hotel safes. It doesn't take long to be a victim of a theft, even in the star-rated hotels in the world. Take photos of pieces of jewelry prior to travel; should the unthinkable happen, this will serve as proof for insurance and help you remember what you packed for when your memory fails you after a long flight.
The Nuanced Impact of Signature Style
Ultimately, your jewelry will become part of the signature aesthetic that makes up your visual vocabulary to the world. Whether it’s the architectural design lines of Art Deco, a nod to the golden age of luxury travel, or whether it’s the organic, nature-based, illustrative designs that convey to others your relationship to diverse landscapes, an ongoing awareness and process will help you create some form of personal brand.
The chicest luxury travelers know that jewelry enhances, never outshines, the experience. Your jewelry should certainly enhance your table presence at a Moroccan riad, create a lovely echo against your figure on your hike among the glaciers of Patagonia, or elevate your profile at one of Tokyo’s most exclusive restaurants; your experience and presence with the world around you is the story. Your jewelry merely confirms you will look fabulous while collecting cultures and memories wherever you travel.
