Heirloom jewellery isn’t just about carats and cuts — it’s a legacy, a memory, and a story passed down through generations. From your grandmother’s temple necklace to a mother’s polki set, these pieces hold more than monetary value; they carry emotion, artistry, and family history, which is why, when it comes to preserving them, extra care is non-negotiable. Here’s how to ensure your heirloom treasures remain as radiant as the day they were first worn.
Tiara Dhody, Founder of Treasures by Tiara says,
Heirloom wedding jewellery is far more than just another accessory. These are pieces steeped in memory and heritage, often crafted using techniques that are no longer in practice, whether set with diamonds, coloured gemstones, uncut polki or delicate enamel work. Ensuring their beauty endures means caring for them with the same thought and precision with which they were once made.
Over time, even the finest jewellery is vulnerable to tarnish, discolouration and structural damage if not stored properly. Tissue paper and plastic pouches can do more harm than good. The ideal approach starts with the right materials: muslin, satin, velvet or soft cotton — fabrics that allow each piece to breathe and stay protected.
Gold, in all its forms, should be individually wrapped and stored in a lined, structured box to prevent dullness and scratches. Diamond and coloured stone pieces require extra care. Wrap them in a seltvy cloth or soft napkin, and store them separately to avoid contact. Jadau pieces should always be cushioned in cotton and placed in firm containers to protect their intricate setting. Bangles and kadas do best in individual compartments, while necklaces should rest in sponge-lined boxes to avoid bending.
True heirlooms are made to outlast trends and time. With proper storage and mindful upkeep, their beauty and legacy remain intact, ready to be worn, treasured and passed on.
Neeti Patwa, founder of Oropel says,
Heirloom bridal jewelry carries more than just material value, it holds stories, sentiment, and generations of memory. That’s precisely why it deserves more than an occasional polish or a forgotten velvet box.
For pieces that are intricate or fragile, don’t wait for signs of damage. Visit a trusted jeweler periodically to check for loose stones, weakened prongs, or worn settings. A gentle professional clean can restore shine without risking damage to delicate craftsmanship.
Always store each piece individually. While diamonds are durable, gold and other metals can scratch or bend when stored together. Avoid plastic containers, as they can trap moisture. Instead, wrap each item in a soft, breathable fabric and keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Paying attention to what you’re storing in wood or leather boxes, especially vintage ones, can release chemicals that react with metals and cause tarnishing. If using an older box, line it with fresh, clean cloth.
Never store jewelry immediately after wearing it. Residue from sweat, perfume, and natural oils can dull finishes and weaken settings. Always wipe pieces gently with a soft cloth before putting them away.
Humidity is another hidden threat. Slip a few silica gel packets or anti-tarnish strips into your storage box to absorb excess moisture but remember to replace them every few months to keep them effective.
Finally, check in on your pieces from time to time. Look for any changes, loosened settings, dull stones, or subtle damage. A minor fix today can prevent a costly repair later.
Jewelry this personal isn’t meant to be locked away and forgotten. Store it with care, so it’s ready to be worn, loved, and passed on.
Sonal Sawansukha & Abhinav Sawansukha Founders – Jewel Saga add,
Heirloom wedding jewellery is not just precious in value, but priceless in emotion, I believe these pieces deserve gentle care and deep respect.One should store each piece separately in soft pouches or lined boxes to protect their detailing. Wrap meenakari or jadau pieces in muslin cloth and keep everything in a cool, dry space away from sunlight and moisture.
Avoid plastic zip-locks..they can harm the finish of jewellery over time. I would personally recommend placing a small note or a picture of you wearing it as a bride with each heirloom …so that years later, it’s not just jewellery that’s passed down, but memories and legacy too. As for all the information about jewellery like gold,diamonds,polkis etc ,u could save its details or bills digitally with you so in future u could refer to it and know its current value!
Rishi Jain – Founder, Mirasa Jewels says,
Preserving your heirloom wedding jewellery ensures that its beauty and emotional value last for generations. Always clean each piece with a soft cloth before storing, and use acid-free pouches or boxes to prevent tarnishing or damage. Store items separately to avoid scratches or tangling, and keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. For added safety, consider a fireproof safe or bank security box, and document your pieces with photos and appraisals. Special gems like pearls or opals may need a slightly humid environment to maintain their luster. By caring for and storing your wedding jewellery mindfully, you protect not just precious metals and stones, but the stories and love they carry.
Gautam Totuka, Director at P.C. Totuka & Sons adds,
Heirloom jewellery carries more than craftsmanship—it holds the weight of memories, milestones, and moments. Preserving these pieces is not just about keeping them safe, but about honouring the stories they whisper.
Always store each piece separately to avoid scratches—soft muslin pouches or velvet-lined boxes are ideal. Avoid exposure to moisture and perfume; let them breathe, but not rust. For intricate polki or jadau work, keep neem leaves or silica sachets close to absorb any humidity.
Once a year, let them see light. Wear them. Clean them gently with a dry, lint-free cloth. If needed, bring them to a trusted jeweller for a professional check-up—not for shine, but for structure.
Jewels like these aren’t just ornaments; they’re legacies. Handle them with the same care you’d give to an old letter or a grandmother’s recipe—delicate, irreplaceable, and full of life.
The Wedding Vows Takeaway
Your heirloom jewellery is more than an accessory — it’s your family’s legacy draped in gold, diamonds, and artistry. Treating it with care means safeguarding stories for the next generation. With thoughtful storage, gentle handling, and mindful preservation, these timeless treasures will continue to dazzle — carrying love, tradition, and memory into the future.
