Oversized and metallic jewelry can trigger the alarm, so it's best to put it in your carry-on, where it won't set off the metal detector. In fact, TSA actually recommends that you keep your jewelry on (with the exception of large or metallic pieces).

According to 2026 TSA and international security standards, you generally do not need to remove a gold necklace or other small, fine jewelry. High-purity gold is not magnetic and usually does not trigger the walk-through metal detector. Most security officers prefer that you keep your jewelry on to prevent it from being lost or stolen in the plastic bins. However, if you are wearing a large, chunky "statement" piece or heavy metal bangles, they may set off the alarm, in which case you will be asked to remove them or undergo a secondary pat-down. If you are going through a "millimeter wave" full-body scanner, they may ask you to remove larger pieces to avoid creating a "shadow" on the scan. For simple chains, it is safest and easiest to just keep them on your person as you pass through the checkpoint.