Jewellery Storage: How to Keep Your Diamonds Scratch-Free and Secure

Proper storage is one of the most underrated aspects of jewellery care. We often think about how to clean and polish our jewellery, but forget that most damage occurs not from wearing, but from poor handling and storage when not worn.

If you’re the proud owner of a lab-grown diamond engagement ring or any fine diamond jewellery, here’s your essential guide to safe, long-term storage.

Why Storage Matters More Than You Think

Diamonds may be the hardest material on Earth, but that means they can easily scratch everything else—including other diamonds. Metal is softer still and far more prone to scratches, dents, and discolouration. Most long-term jewellery damage occurs:

• In cluttered drawers or trinket trays
• During travel when pieces are thrown into a pouch or cosmetic bag
• In humid or dusty conditions that accelerate tarnishing
• When multiple items rub together over months or years

Choosing the Right Storage System

Jewellery boxes should do more than look pretty; they need to function properly.

• Choose a structured box with multiple compartments, ideally lined with soft velvet or cotton
• Rings should sit individually in ring rolls, not stacked together
• Necklaces and bracelets should be laid flat or hung to prevent tangling
• If possible, store diamond earrings in their original posts or in divided spaces

Travelling with Jewellery

Travelling introduces an entirely new set of risks: loss, tangling, theft, and impact. Your storage needs to be compact, secure, and protective.

• Use a dedicated travel case with separate compartments
• Keep your most valuable pieces in your carry-on—never in checked luggage
• Only bring what you plan to wear; leave heirloom or irreplaceable items in a safe at home

Humidity, Light and Temperature

Humidity and light exposure can cause premature tarnish, metal weakening, and stone clouding over time.

• Always store jewellery in a dry space; avoid bathrooms or kitchens
• For silver or gold pieces, consider anti-tarnish strips inside your storage boxes
• Keep items out of direct sunlight which can fade certain materials and dry out leather, pouches or clasps

What to Avoid Entirely

• Ziplock bags (unless anti-tarnish-specific) – they trap moisture
• Wood surfaces – can release chemicals that tarnish metal
• Ceramic dishes – while popular on Pinterest, they scratch
• Tangled chains – these can lead to warping or snapping if not stored flat

Long-Term Storage Tips

If you’re not wearing a piece regularly, take these precautions:

• Clean and dry the jewellery thoroughly before storing it
• Wrap items in acid-free tissue or microfibre cloth
• Store in a cool, dark drawer or box away from electronics (which generate heat)

Conclusion

Proper storage doesn’t just protect your jewellery from damage; it preserves its appearance, comfort, and value. Every diamond tells a story, and you deserve to see yours shine for decades to come.

To learn more, visit our Jewellery Care Guide or see how real couples store and protect their jewellery by following us on Instagram @londondiamondsofficial.