OK, You’ve Spent the $: a Few Tips on Easily Caring for Your Jewelry. Part 1.

Yeah, we’ve all said and Done it. It’s not a big deal, “I have a system,” or “everything ends up in my jewelry box anyway.” Yes! Of Course, and maybe that works, most times. But, how about those times when we are hurrying to get out the door; someone waiting on us downstairs, tapping watches, yelling up to us that we are running late to meet our friends or business partners and…..Crap, the necklace you were planning to wear is too tangled to even Deal with! WTF? 

Yes, ladies, we have all said it in some way or another. Why? Why Now? Noooo!!!

And, actually, I’ve said it to myself: ” Really? I designed it THIS way? I need to make notes….Unacceptable!!!” Ask my husband, it Does happen! So, after years of “novicing” my way through the jewelry world, I have learned a few tricks and tips that can not only keep your jewelry clean and pristine, but also get you out the door, maybe not on time, but with less hassle from your jewelry accessories. 

First a Little Science! 

Why does our sterling silver jewelry tarnish? I noticed when I first got into the jewelry business that all my sterling silver purchases came encased in tiny clear plastic bags. From jump rings, to 2mm crimp beads, to beads, and even 60 ft. rolls of Sterling wire: Everything is packaged in a clear plastic zippy bag. Why? Well, Sterling Silver oxidizes or, simply, tarnishes and quite easily. Short scientific explanation: all Sterling is a silver-copper alloy @ 92.5% silver- with the remaining 7.5% consisting of other base metals, most often copper. Tarnishing is a chemical reaction of the alloys when in contact with Sulfur compounds. The main cause of tarnishing of silver is a trace of hydrogen sulfide gas in the air. Yes, AIR! Think, your Grandma’s silver tea set. Did you ever have the burdensome chore as a kid to polish it? 

Storing your jewelry:

Keeping your jewelry stored within little clear plastic zip bags creates a “filing” or an organizing system for your jewelry: preventing tangles, damage, lost items, AND helps keep your sterling silver items from being exposed to Air! With a few simple tips and a little bit of initial effort, you can establish a storage “set-up” that is both easy and effective..

So, TIPS: 

• Store your jewelry in clear zippy plastic bags. You can use kitchen brand name zip bags or ask a local Jeweler or Beader if they have extra to spare or if can purchase for you. 
• Organize your jewelry by type: Rings, Bracelets, Necklaces, etc.
• When storing your jewelry: More than one item can be kept in a bag. I recommend doing “like with like” and so on. Don’t overload the bag as it becomes difficult to see what all your storing.
• Always clasp your chain necklaces prior to putting away: this helps in preventing chain tangles or knots. 
• Use extra large safety pins: If you have a hanging system (where you hang your necklaces, etc. on a stand or wall display) affix safety pins to corners of bags and use as hooks to hang your zip bags.
• Silverware trays make for excellent drawer organizers. This can be a great out of site organizational tool in lieu of a jewelry box. Look for an adjustable silverware drawer to ensure it can fit within your dresser. 
• Jewelry boxes & furniture: still use the plastic zip bag system. Even in a jewelry box or armoire, your jewelry is exposed to Air.
• Travel with your plastic baggies. Keeping your jewelry inside of the plastic bags makes packing quick and simple; just grab what you want, throw into your cloth jewelry travel bag or pouch and go! Once at your destination; easy unpacking and “seeing” what all you have brought along.

When I approach taking care of my jewelry items, whether made by myself or others; honestly, there is no right or wrong way to do it, nor any sense of perfection. I’ve just found through my experience and knowledge that storing your jewelry in a relatively organized fashion and within clear plastic zip bags makes life a tiny bit more trouble-free and protects your purchases. So, a little time and a little effort can truly make a big difference in the care and longevity of your pieces!