Building a Head-Turning Travel Jewelry Collection

When it comes to souvenirs, the qualities travelers most value are quality, gift appropriateness, and having the name or design of a place visited—as found in a study published in the journal, Tourism and Hospitality Research. When it comes to the first of these values (quality), few items can compete with jewelry. Unlike postcards, magnets, and fashion, jewelry can last a lifetime and can travel with you to a constantly growing list of destinations. To make sure you pick items that will hold their sentimental and material value, keep the following considerations in mind.

The Value of Pre-Travel Research

Before travelling, research into where you can find the best prices for authentic, quality designs. For instance, if you are shopping for gold in Saudi Arabia, discover where the authorized Souks are. Jewelry stands in big malls and central markets generally sell gold at a significantly higher price. Value is also about buying pieces that are intricately tied into the lands you are visiting. Building a symbolic travel jewelry collection involves finding out about different regional and local styles and materials. The Maasai in Kenya, for instance, make their jewelry with symbolic beads whose color symbolizes different ideals. Red embodies bravery, while white represents the nourishment of cow’s milk. Moroccan pieces, meanwhile, contains symbols that are thought to ward off evil and illness. Discover more about the different meanings ascribed to jewelry and choose items that align with the values you hold dear in your own life.

 

Jewelry as an Investment

Some parts of the world are known for the unique metals and gemstones they mine. If you are keen to invest in loose stones, find out which are in demand and which have a limited supply. Once you've acquired these sought-after gemstones, explore the option to sell them online, leveraging various platforms such as The Alloy Market and potentially maximize your returns.  Tanzanite from Tanzania, for instance, is mined from one small mine that is predicted to run out of this deep blue stone in a maximum of 20 years. High-quality emeralds and rubies are also harder to find, making them safe investments. Finally, there is the Paraiba tourmaline, which is only found in three mines in remote northeastern Brazil.

 Shopping from Up-and-Coming Jewelers

You should also read up on up-and-coming designers in the areas you are visiting. Jewelers who have a shop selling their own designs are particularly interesting, as their presence suggests they have a large enough clientele yet they haven’t quite made it to worldwide fame status. Independent jewelers are designing an array of captivating pieces that reflex their passion and values. For instance, take a look at UK designer Elin Horgan (who creates all items from eco-silver), Finnish jeweler, Mia Minerva (who creates pieces based on her modernistic illustrations), or Londoner, Ella Bull (who makes cheeky jewelry). Elle may be starting out as an entrepreneur but she has worked in the jewelry department of films the caliber of Dr Strange, Aladdin, and The Eternals. 

Souvenirs are an important way of connecting people with their travels. Jewelry is one of the longest-lasting, most displayable souvenir types. To build a collection you will enjoy a lifetime, aim to learn more about the traditions behind specific styles and materials, dabble a little in investment if you have the budget for it, and pick up a couple of pieces from talented local or regional designers.