Taking care of fine gold and silver jewelry requires a two-step approach: the first is to properly clean it; the second is to properly store it. However, before we get to the nitty gritty details specific to each type of metal, here are overall points to consider when storing any kind of fine jewelry.  

• Always separate and store your jewelry by metal and by gemstones. Certain metals – like platinum – are very soft and prone to scratching easily. Certain gemstones (we’re looking at you, diamonds) are exceptionally hard and will easily damage other softer gemstones, not to mention scratch and damage soft metals as well. 
• Choose a storage place that has a stable temperature and low humidity. Damp, humid environments are NOT good for fine jewelry – these conditions make jewelry more susceptible to discoloration and tarnishing, which is never a good thing (especially with silver). High temperatures can cause discoloration and internal damage to certain metals and gemstones, and even dry out and crack pearls. The more stable the storage environment, the less stress on the metals and gems.  
• Make sure your jewelry box (or whatever you choose to store your fine jewelry in) has a fabric lining. The lining will keep certain metals and stones from chipping and scratching on the inside of the box.  
• Consider buying a safety-deposit box or a home safe. You will still need to be mindful to put the pieces in a proper storage container BEFORE you put them into the safe/box, but you also get the added peace of mind knowing your jewelry is secure and in a temperature-controlled environment. And on that note... 

Important Tip: Keep your paperwork (receipts, valuation certifications, original boxes, insurance, etc.) someplace separate from the jewelry itself.   

How to Properly Clean Gold Jewelry

When worn frequently, gold jewelry gets exposed to all kinds of chemicals and debris - including sweat and skin oils, dust and dirt, makeup, etc. - which can negatively affect it. Because of this, you should clean your jewelry regularly, using a solution that mixes 10 parts warm water with 2 parts dish soap.  

• Start by soaking your gold jewelry. Ideally, you should soak the pieces for about 3 hours and then scrub them gently with a very soft brush.  
• While cleaning, you can use soap as needed. You can also use rubbing alcohol for cleaning and sanitizing but avoid bleach.  
• Rinse under clean water and blot dry with a cloth (not a paper towel or tissue, as they can leave particles behind and scratch your jewelry). For an extra shine, use a jewelry polishing cloth after this step.  
• As you clean and dry your jewelry, be on the lookout for any specific issues, such as nicks, scratches, or loose stones, as you don’t want to end up doing more damage or losing precious gems while cleaning.  

Now that your gold jewelry is properly cleaned, it's ready to be stored. 

How to Properly Store Gold Jewelry

Once your gold jewelry is properly clean and prepped, you can move on to storing it.  

• Use a jewelry box with a clean, dry, fabric lining. 
• Wrap each piece in a soft cloth. (TIP: If you don’t have a jewelry box, you can actually use those microfiber phone screen clothes to wrap each piece individually) 
• Store pieces separately to prevent tangling or scratching. 

Cleaning Silver Jewelry

Silver jewelry is particularly susceptible to tarnishing, especially when kept side by side with other pieces of silver. It is also very susceptible to scratching. To clean it effectively:  

• Wipe first with a polishing cloth or soft sponge. 
• Using a non-abrasive cleansing paste on soiled or tarnished pieces, gently rub the metal in circles, ensuring you adequately coat and massage the paste into the metal. 

• Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth (again, avoid paper towels or tissues, which will not only leave paper particles but may also scratch the finish). 
• If storing several pieces together, wrap each piece individually in soft felt or anti-tarnish cloth. 
• To further keep from tarnishing, store in a dark, dry location.  

How to Properly Store Silver Jewelry

As mentioned, silver is a soft metal highly prone to tarnishing. It should be kept away from chemicals with sulfur in them, which include but are not limited to: human sweat, chlorinated water, and household cleaners.  

• Store silver pieces in protective bags away from moisture and heat, out of direct sunlight. 
• Use a special jewelry box lined with anti-tarnishing lining to protect the pieces from scratching. 
• Add anti-tarnish strips to a jewelry box to help soak up pollutants that might otherwise damage or dull silver pieces. 

Jewelry Boxes and Other Jewelry Storage Options

We carry a selection of different jewelry storage options, from pieces beautiful enough to be showcases themselves to travel cases perfect for taking your fine jewelry with you wherever you go. Below are some of the carefully tailored and constructed jewelry box options. To see the full range of what we carry, click here.  

Black Lacquer Jewelry Box

Wolf Design Travel Zip Case

Sand Faux Shagreen Large Jewelry Box

Chiffon Jewelry Box with Silver Trim

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Need more help with best practices for storing your jewelry and finding the right container to suit your needs? Contact us or stop by one of our stores and let our experts direct you to the options that work best for you.  

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