Carrying jewellery for wedding

[lata]

Hi, my parents and relatives are coming from India to attend my wedding in USA. Can they carry all jewellery, does it have to be declared, what do they have to tell at customs? Some of the jewellery are for gifting while others will be for their own use. Thanks for your help in advance.

[txh1b]

Depending on the cost involved, it might be a good idea to let them know that you will be taking them back with you.

In general, personal use items need not be declared but it may lead to complications.

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/news_releases/archives/2008_news_releases/nov_2008/11122008.xml

[HFM1919]

make sure they declare everything of consequential value and have receipts if they are returning with 'swag.'

[leoGreed]

All jewelry must be declared. Otherwise, the state can confiscate it, and you will be fined. Last year my wife and I got married in Connecticut. We were from Massachusetts ourselves, but we chose to celebrate the wedding in another state to make it easier for relatives who came to the party to get home. Many of our friends gave us gold and silver jewelry. My wife's mother gave religious charm necklaces for Gloria since she is from a religious family. There were no problems until we were about to leave the state. No one had receipts for the jewelry, so the cops thought we were suspicious.

[RichardGravener]

Yes, your parents and relatives can carry jewelry to the USA, but it must be declared at customs upon arrival. They should fill out the Customs Declaration Form 6059B or use the automated system at the port of entry. Mention that some jewelry is for gifting and some for personal use. It’s advisable to carry proof of ownership (receipts, appraisals, or photos) to avoid issues and clarify that it’s not for resale. For valuable items, they might check the goudprijs per gram to provide accurate value declarations. Jewelry for gifting may be subject to duties if its value exceeds the duty-free allowance (usually $100 per recipient). Keep jewelry in carry-on luggage for safety.