Natural stones and travel: how to care for them on vacation

Traveling means changing climates, more hours in the sun, suitcases where pieces knock against each other, and activities (beach, pool, hiking) that aren't always compatible with natural stone jewelry. Here are a few simple recommendations before you pack.

If you're bringing more than one piece, the safest option is to pack each one in its own pouch or in a case with separate compartments: loose and together inside a suitcase, they knock against each other during the trip and can get scratched. Wearing them also avoids the friction, but that's not always practical with several pieces.

Hardness measures how easily a stone scratches, not how well it survives a drop or a knock: a hard stone can still chip on a strong impact. For outdoor activities, prioritize compact pieces without loose pendants or thin edges, and save the more delicate pieces for lower-activity days.

Just like we explain in our note on caring for jewelry in hot weather, chlorine and seawater aren't friends of a natural stone: take pieces off before getting in the water, whether at home or on vacation.