One of the most valuable collections in almost every closet, and often the least (or last) considered, is the jewelry! Whether you’re a collector of high-end designer jewelry or you have keepsake family pieces passed down through generations, it’s critical to carve out a place for your investments to be protected in a way that you can still appreciate them. Often, home owners are so preoccupied with having ample storage for their clothing, shoes, luggage, and accessories, the jewelry and watches slip off the radar! Rather than slipping your most treasured items into a hotel safe in a leftover drawer, I want to propose a few more functional alternatives that can complement the your collection and your closet.

We know I like to look to high end retail for inspiration when designing dressing rooms and creating clever solutions for clothing, so where better to look for ideas to store your valuables than the luxury jewelers themselves? Generally, there are two types of jewelry and watches in our clients’ closets — the costume / everyday pieces, and then the “good stuff”. Right now we’re speaking of the latter. These are items that our clients want to be able to see and enjoy in their private spaces, but must be kept under lock and key the majority of the time.

We’re able to achieve this balance of accessibility and security thanks to so many innovative technologies that can give the homeowner sole access to their pieces. Biometric locks, automatic panic features, false drawers, and fireproof cladding are just a few of the techniques we can employ to ensure even the most beautiful jewelry display is protected from intruders and the elements. For more on some of the secret storage solutions we implement, check out my previous post here!

In terms of aesthetics, luxurious leathers, suedes, and stones mimic the retail settings where these pieces are proudly displayed by the likes of Harry Winston, Cartier, Van Cleef and others. Like the rest of our closets, our jewelry displays and safe rooms are equal parts form and function! Suede neck forms, custom inserts, and automatic watch winders are all great ways to store your valuables, even if only for your eyes to see!

Now, if security is less of a concern, or you’re interested in storing the pieces you use regularly in a readily accessible and stylish fashion, consider a jewelry box! There are some beautiful designer options available that are perfect for traveling or displaying as an accessory atop an island or bureau. These are perfect for keeping sets of items together, and give you the luxury of partitioned compartments without having to sacrifice a drawer in your closet.

Often, for the less valuable jewelry items and the pieces you wear daily, I suggest carving out a clever spot in your closet or dressing room! They can still be as visible or hidden as you’d like — behind a mirrored panel, hanging on hooks, or showcased in a glass-top island. This should be designed as a part of your closet, and can be incorporated into any size space! Having a visible jewelry area in your dressing room is also a great deterrent should an intruder ever make their way in, to keep them from searching out your more valuable stash.

Jewelry stands, neck forms, and trays (like out custom suede-lined tray) are also ideal ways to keep these pieces out on display and to dress up an otherwise empty surface! Here, you can play with vibrant colors and get creative with which pieces to have on display as artwork in your closet. Displays and trays such as these are also great if you’re working with a stylist or staging items for a trip, to see the pieces together and keep them easily accessible.

What are some creative ways you’re storing your jewelry? Have you seen a brilliant display you want to share? Leave a comment below or reach out on IG @laclosetdesign!