Organizing Your Jewelry
If your jewelry collection has become a tangled mess of chains, orphaned earrings, and pieces you forgot you even owned, you’re not alone. Jewelry is one of those small yet significant categories that often gets overlooked in a home organizing plan—until it becomes a frustrating daily hassle.
Fortunately, with the right systems in place and a little guidance from a professional organizing approach, you can transform your accessories into a curated collection that’s easy to see, access, and enjoy. Whether you’re diving into a weekend decluttering project or considering an organizing service to help streamline your space, let’s walk through the essentials of organizing your jewelry once and for all.
Step 1: Declutter Before You Organize
Before you invest in organizers or start rearranging, the first step is always decluttering. Dump everything out—yes, everything. Use a clean towel or tray and lay out every piece you own.
Ask yourself:
Do I wear this?
Is it broken or missing a pair?
Does it reflect my current style?
Does it have sentimental value?
Be honest. That statement necklace from five years ago might have been trendy then, but if it’s collecting dust now, it might be time to let it go. Set aside anything broken or tarnished that you plan to fix—then follow through or let it go within a week. For high-value items or sentimental pieces you don’t wear, consider storing them safely elsewhere rather than keeping them in daily rotation.
Decluttering is the foundation of any successful home organizing project. Once you’ve whittled down your collection to the pieces you truly love and wear, you’ll be amazed at how much more manageable it all feels.
Step 2: Categorize Your Collection
A professional organizing tip: sort your jewelry into categories before you start putting anything away. This will help you figure out what kind of storage system makes the most sense for your needs.
Common categories include:
Everyday pieces
Statement jewelry
Fine jewelry
Sentimental or heirloom items
Seasonal or costume pieces
We recommend keeping everyday jewelry in the most accessible place, like a dish or tray on your dresser, while more occasional or delicate items can be stored in drawers, boxes, or organizers.
Step 3: Choose Smart Storage Solutions
The right storage solution will not only make your jewelry easier to find—it’ll protect your pieces and reduce visual clutter.
Here are a few functional (and pretty) options to consider:
Drawer Inserts: Velvet-lined trays with compartments are ideal for separating earrings, rings, and bracelets. These are a great choice because they make use of vertical drawer space while keeping pieces visible.
Hanging Organizers: Wall-mounted or over-the-door options are great for keeping necklaces from tangling. Bonus: they double as decor!
Stackable Boxes: Perfect for stacking and stashing in a drawer or closet shelf, especially if you’re short on counter space.
Jewelry Stands and Dishes: For your most-worn items, use small bowls or trees that keep them accessible but contained. This can be a chic way to add personality to your dresser or vanity, too.
When working with a home organizing professional, one of the benefits is having them assess your space and habits to suggest the perfect organizing tools for your unique setup.
Step 4: Store Strategically
Just like with any organizing system, where you store your jewelry matters.
Keep like with like: Store similar pieces together so you can quickly find what you need.
Visibility = wearability: If you can’t see it, you won’t wear it. Aim for clear lids, labeled boxes, or open storage.
Out of sight, but not out of mind: For heirlooms or occasion-only items, store them in protective pouches or boxes in a less-used drawer or cabinet. Just make sure they’re easy to access when needed.
If you travel often, consider a compact travel jewelry case that’s ready to go with your favorite pieces.
Step 5: Maintain Your System
Like any part of your home, your jewelry organization needs occasional maintenance. Once a month, take a few minutes to tidy up your storage, untangle anything that’s gone rogue, and return stray items to their proper place.
Pro tip: when you buy a new piece, remove one you no longer wear. This “one in, one out” method keeps clutter at bay and ensures your collection stays curated and intentional.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just want a second set of hands (and eyes), hiring an organizing service can make a huge difference. A professional organizing session can turn what feels like a daunting chore into a fun and productive experience—with results that last.
Is jewelry care part of your regular routine? Whenever I get my wedding ring prongs repaired I’m reminded how much it can sparkle. Do you have a favorite product you swear by? Let me know!
Necklaces tied in knots? We’ve all been there. Try these quick tips:
Use Baby Powder or Cornstarch: lightly sprinkle on the tangle—this reduces friction and helps chains slip apart more easily.
Grab Two Safety Pins or Needles: gently work them into the knot from opposite sides and tease it apart with small, slow movements. Tweezers or toothpicks work too!
Lay It Flat: place the chain on a flat surface, like a towel or dish. Gravity can work against you if you try to untangle while holding it up.
Add a Drop of Oil (optional): a tiny bit of baby oil or olive oil can help loosen tight knots. Just be sure to clean the jewelry afterward with mild soap and water.
Prevent Future Tangles: Remember to store necklaces individually in small zip bags, use jewelry rolls for travel, and hang flat in a divided tray at home.
Final Thoughts
Jewelry should bring you joy, not stress. With a little decluttering and the right storage solutions, you can enjoy your accessories every day without the frustration of digging through a tangled mess. Whether you go the DIY route or bring in a home organizing expert, the key is creating a system that reflects your personal style and supports your daily routine.
Remember: your jewelry deserves to shine—and so do you! Want help organizing more than just your jewelry? Consider working with us to bring order and calm to your entire home. From closets and kitchens to garages and guest rooms, a well-organized space makes everyday life feel easier, lighter, and more joyful.
Jessica is the founder of Signature Organizing, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Washington (servicing the greater Eastside and Seattle area). She loves transforming chaos into functional spaces and is known for bringing creative solutions to improve the quality of life for her clients. She shares her tips and tricks on Instagram @signatureorganizing
