To take care of your jewelry, here are some jewelry storage tips.

Clean your jewelry before storing. This may be common knowledge. Nevertheless, it is important to say this first before the rest of the jewelry storage tips. Hair spray, perfume and perspiration may cause jewelry to become dull if not cleaned off.

Although it is ideal to keep your precious pieces in a jewelry box, you have to choose a suitable one. Some jewelry boxes do not have securing areas to keep your jewelry from rolling, scratching or bumping into each other, so always separate your jewelry during storage. If possible, wrap them up individually in a soft cloth or pouch before storing. It is also important to make sure that the jewelry box is suitable for your type of jewelry. For example, some jewelry boxes are designed specifically for rings, some for necklaces and bracelets.

Many people know that sterling silver jewelry tends to tarnish easily. Tarnish is the result of a natural reaction between silver and the air and environment. So, to slow down the tarnishing, you can store your silver jewelry in an airtight container or zip lock bag. Other tips to consider:

•Store silver jewelry together with anti-tarnish strips. These will absorb the agents that cause silver to tarnish.

•Anti-tarnish pouch and cloth are also available from jewelry stores. Basically, they function like anti-tarnish strips.

•You can also use silica gel as it will absorb the moisture in the air and slow down tarnishing.

To prevent necklaces from tangling, you can store them in jewelry organizers, jewelry boxes or armoires. Choose those that have specifically crafted stands for hanging necklaces and bracelets. To prevent kinks, necklaces should lay flat and straight if not hung during storage.

Each pair of earrings should be in its own compartment or hang on hooks. Earring posts or clips can bend and rings can wear if they are not secured to a display or insert.