There is a surprising variety among jewelry boxes on the market. The mass-produced versions sold at the local discount store were meant to hold less expensive pieces. Other retailers offer higher quality jewelry boxes that better protect valuable pieces of jewelry. When choosing a jewelry box, consider the pieces the owner already has and tends to collect. Someone who loves earrings needs enough spaces to separate each pair so they are easy to find. Someone with a lot of necklaces and chains needs a space in which to hang them without tangling. Rings should be separated into their own holders.
The size of the jewelry box is a matter of taste. Some people like having a multi-drawer cabinet to house the entire jewelry collection. Earrings and coordinating necklaces are each housed nearby and are easy to find. However, small jewelry boxes are excellent for holding that one special piece of jewelry reserved for special occasions or holding particular memories. The interior of the box should be lined in order prevent the jewelry from becoming scratched or tarnished. While the color of the lining is not really important in terms of protecting the jewelry, it does make a difference aesthetically. The mustard-yellow lining of jewelry boxes found in discount stores does not compare to the elegant cream, red or blue velvet found in other versions.