How to store jewelry in an NYC storage unit

Jewelry is often the most valuable possession we own. Due to how much some jewelry can cost, it’s important to look after it with great care. It can get damaged over time, leading to a loss in their shine and monetary value. There are many affordable movers in NYC who can help you with the task of storing, but not all of them have all the required information. That’s why we’ll share with you our best tips on how to store jewelry in an NYC storage unit. 

How to store jewelry in an NYC storage unit without incurring damage over time? 

There are many things to consider and know about storing jewelry in a storage unit. You should do all you can to make sure they remain intact throughout the duration of their stay there. It’s not as easy as just acquiring packing services from NYC professionals. Before that step comes up, you should first do the following things.

Sort your jewelry first before storing it in an NYC storage unit

Start by gathering all pieces together and separating them into categories. Sort your necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings separately. Clean each piece thoroughly to prevent damage or discoloration from dirt or oils, and repair any broken items before storing them. To prevent scratching, wrap each piece in a soft cloth or jewelry pouch. For necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, use small jewelry boxes or plastic containers and store them in a larger container. Rings can be stored in ring holders or in small compartments within a jewelry box. Valuable items such as precious gems or antique jewelry should be stored separately. When moving these, ensure them to your chosen flat rate movers in NYC for guaranteed safety. 

Clean your jewelry

Before you store jewelry in an NYC storage unit, clean it properly. Start by determining the type of metal or gemstone in each piece. Different materials require different cleaning methods. For example, gold and silver can be cleaned with a solution of warm water and mild soap. Pearls and other delicate gems, however, should be wiped with a soft, damp cloth. After cleaning, rinse the jewelry thoroughly with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth. It is also important to avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. For additional advice, don’t hesitate to ask your residential movers in NYC. But just make sure to pick a moving company that knows its stuff! They can also clean them for you and store them in such a way that they don’t get dirty again.

Get insurance for your jewelry before placing it in an NYC storage unit

Getting insurance before storing jewelry in an NYC storage unit offers a layer of protection in case of unexpected events such as theft, damage, or natural disasters. Jewelry is often of significant personal or monetary value, and losing it can be devastating. While storage facilities may provide some security measures, they may not cover theft or damage to your belongings. Insurance, on the other hand, can offer compensation for the loss or damage of your jewelry, helping you recover the value of your items. It is also a good idea to consider the value of your jewelry and the likelihood of damage or loss when choosing a coverage amount. It is always better to be over-insured than under-insured in the case of valuable items. 

What’s the right storage temperature? 

The ideal storage temperature for jewelry is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a relative humidity of 50 to 60 percent. Keeping jewelry at these temperatures and humidity levels helps to prevent damage from extreme heat, cold, or moisture. High temperatures can cause materials to tarnish or discolor. Low temperatures can cause them to crack or become brittle. High humidity levels can also cause the metal to tarnish or cause gems to become cloudy. On the other hand, low humidity levels can cause the metal to dry out and become brittle. By maintaining the right storage temperature and humidity levels, you can ensure that your jewelry stays in good condition for years to come. When storing jewelry in an NYC storage unit, it’s important to make sure that it is temperature and humidity-controlled.

How can time affect different jewelry materials? 

Time can impact jewelry materials in various ways. Precious metals, like gold and silver, can react with air and cause tarnishing. Exposure to humidity and pollutants can speed up discoloration. Soft gemstones, like pearls and opals, are affected by moisture, light, and chemicals. They can dry out, become brittle and deteriorate. Diamonds are durable, but can still be scratched or chipped if not stored or handled properly. Synthetic gems like cubic zirconia can change in appearance over time due to fading or discoloration. Proper care of jewelry is important to prevent time from affecting it. Store it properly, clean it regularly, and have it inspected by a pro. Keep your jewelry in good condition to maintain its beauty and extend its lifespan.

Conclusion

Finding the right moving and storage service in NYC is equally important as cleaning your jewels before storage. Both things should be on a high level, to ensure your precious possessions remain shiny and healthy. By following the steps we laid out, they will definitely stay the way they are right now. If you have any other dilemma or question on how to store jewelry in an NYC storage unit, just ask your movers! If you seek answers from people who work with jewelry for a living, don’t hesitate to reach out to them or find quality online resources to help you out.