How to Store Diamond and Gold Jewellery

How you store jewellery matters as much as how you wear it. Pieces thrown together in a drawer scratch each other, tangle and get lost.

The key rule: keep pieces apart

Diamonds are hard enough to scratch everything, including other diamonds and gold. Gold is soft and scratches easily. Pieces stored together will mark each other. Store each piece in its own space.

Options

• Soft pouches: one for each piece or pair. Cloth pouches with a drawstring are simple and effective.
• A jewellery box with compartments: with soft lining and separate slots for rings, earrings and chains.
• Ring rolls and trays: keep rings upright and apart.
• Hanging organisers: for necklaces and chains, to prevent tangles.
• Original boxes: the box a piece came in is often the best home for it.

Chains and necklaces

Chains tangle easily. Fasten the clasp before storing. Lay chains flat in a tray, or hang them on hooks. For delicate chains, a drinking straw threaded through the chain, with the clasp fastened round the straw, keeps them straight when you travel.

Earrings

Keep pairs together, so that none is lost. A small pouch for each pair, or a card with slits, works well.

Rings

Store rings in a ring box or a tray with slots. Keep rings with stones separate from plain bands.

Where to keep jewellery

• Cool, dry place: avoid damp bathrooms. Moisture can affect metals and stored items.
• Away from sunlight: strong light can fade some gemstones, though not diamonds.
• Away from chemicals: do not store near cleaning products, perfume or cosmetics.
• Out of obvious sight: see keeping jewellery safe at home and in lockers.

Do gold and diamonds need anti-tarnish products?

Gold does not tarnish, and diamonds do not either. Silver does, which is why you may see anti-tarnish strips. For gold and diamond, a soft pouch is enough. Some low-karat or plated pieces can darken, and a dry environment helps.

Before you store

Clean and dry the piece first, and wipe off skin oils and cosmetics. A piece stored dirty will be dirty when you take it out. See how to clean diamond jewellery at home.

Pearls and delicate stones

Pearls need to breathe and be kept away from acids and alcohol, and soft stones need extra padding. Keep them separate from harder pieces.

Organise by use

Keep daily pieces within easy reach, in a small tray. Keep occasional pieces in a box. This way, you will actually wear what you own. See how to build a small jewellery collection.

Keep a list

A simple list, with a photograph of each piece, helps you notice if something is missing and is useful for insurance. See jewellery insurance in India: what to know.

Common questions

Can I store jewellery in the freezer or a fridge? No. Condensation and temperature changes do not help.

Is a velvet bag better than plastic? Soft cloth is best. Sealed plastic can trap moisture.

How do I stop earrings from getting lost? Use a small compartmented box with a lid.

Choose a good home

A well-lined box makes a nice gift too. See how to present a jewellery gift. Browse our diamond jewellery and book an appointment for advice on care.