Diamond jewelry is known for its beauty, value, and nearly universal appeal. Despite their popularity, however, diamonds are not usually worn continuously, and proper storage is essential to preserve their brilliance.
Storing Diamonds: Daily Storage
Diamonds are one of the hardest known substances: crystallized carbon. Diamond jewelry, however, can be delicate and should be stored carefully to prevent accidental damage. Thin edges of stones may be brittle and could chip or crack with rough handling or improper storage, and the settings can be scratched, dented, or warped. Diamonds can also scratch other jewelry, including other diamonds, and should be stored carefully to prevent mishaps.
To store individual pieces of diamond jewelry, wrap each one in a separate soft, lint-free cloth. This cushions the jewelry and keeps it dust-free. The original boxes the pieces came in are perfect for storage, though they take up more space and may be impractical for a large collection. Some jewelers offer small cloth bags for jewelry storage, or a small plastic bag can be used as an alternative. To make lint-free cloths, old handkerchiefs, blouses, or scarves can be cut into small pieces. White cloths are best, because if they are exposed to moisture there is no chance of dyes leaking onto the jewelry.
Most people store diamonds in jewelry boxes. Unfortunately, burglars know this, and prominent jewelry boxes are often the first place they look for valuables. If left on a dresser or nightstand, a jewelry box is best reserved for costume jewelry or other inexpensive pieces. Diamonds should be stored where a burglar wouldn’t normally expect to find expensive items, such as a tool chest, storage closet, or kitchen cabinet.
Crowded jewelry boxes can damage diamonds. Pendants and bracelets tangle easily, and earrings may be lost if a box is so full that they are not noticed. Forcing jewelry into a crowded box may bend or warp rings, earrings, or other delicate items, especially antique and heirloom pieces. A crowded jewelry box is also more likely to result in chips and scratches.
Storing Diamonds: Travel Storage
When traveling, it is important to store diamond jewelry in luggage that is not entrusted to porters, baggage handlers, or other attendants. Always keep expensive jewelry in a secure carry-on bag or purse, or in a body pouch designed to be worn under clothing. As with visible jewelry boxes, room safes are the first place a burglar checks for a traveler’s valuables, and if jewelry must be left in a hotel, it is best to store it inconspicuously.
For further security while traveling, take several photographs of expensive jewelry in case it is stolen and must be described or identified. Photographs also help prove that the jewelry wasn’t purchased abroad if customs officials request verification.
Just as jewelry storage at home, keep diamonds properly wrapped and individually stored while traveling, since they may be jostled repeatedly and have a greater chance of scratching one another. Many travel jewelry cases are available with different compartments and individual pockets to store several pieces at once, and the case itself is small enough to conceal easily in luggage or a hotel room.
Storing Diamonds: Long Term Storage
For very expensive diamonds or heirlooms that are worn infrequently, the best storage option is to invest in a bank safe deposit box. While it is unlikely that the box would be moved or jostled, diamonds should still be wrapped individually and stored carefully. The dry conditions of a vault or safe deposit box will not harm diamond jewelry, but other stones may become brittle or loose because of the climate. Emeralds and opals are especially vulnerable, and if diamond jewelry contains other gemstones, a damp cloth should be put in the box. Periodic inspections insure the jewelry is intact and the cloth is still damp.
With proper storage, diamonds can remain dazzling and secure for many years, becoming treasured heirlooms for generations to come.
