8 Easy Tips for Organizing Jewelry and Gemstones

There’s something about cooler weather that makes me want to organize things like closets and drawers. I especially look forward to organizing jewelry. Here are some easy-to-do ways to keep your jewelry safe, secure, and beautiful.

1. Keep it together: When someone calls me for an appraisal and I ask, “how many pieces do you have?,” the answer may be 10 or 15. By the time I get there, the number is up to 40 or 50 and they’re still collecting pieces from around the house. So, take an inventory of what you have.
2. Keep it soft: You may have hard jewelry boxes but softness works when it comes to fine jewelry. Make sure there’s a fabric lining so jewels don’t scratch.
3. Keep it spacious: Don’t clump together your jewels. They can get scratched or jumbled—and most of all, you can lose track of what you really have.
4. Keep it separate: Keep diamonds and most gemstones safe and scratch-free by storing them in individual compartments, cases, or even in zip lock bags. Pearls are different: they should be wrapped in a soft cloth or pouch. NEVER store pearls in plastic bags—they need moisture, and if they dry out they can crack.
5. Keep it safe (from tarnish): The air tarnishes silver, but if you keep pieces dry and away from other silver jewelry, there may be less tarnish.
6. Keep it untangled: One of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to store your fine gold chains is to thread one end through a plastic straw and lock the clasp.
7. Keep it safe: For your less-worn, more expensive pieces, consider investing in a locked, hidden location.

8. Keep it insured: Things happen. And whether you break or lose one of your favorite pieces of jewelry or a treasured heirloom, you need to make sure they’re insured. Start the insurance process with an updated appraisal. Get the coverage your jewelry deserves.

Avoid the holiday rush—this is a great time to call me for an updated appraisal before you’re busy with festivities.

Your jewelry organizing fairy,

Aimee