Jewelry and watches occupy a strange space in most wardrobes u2014 often the most expensive items we own per square inch, yet frequently the least thought-through. A little intentionality here goes a long way, both in how these pieces look and how long they last.

Buying jewelry: quality over quantity

It’s tempting to accumulate a large collection of inexpensive pieces, but a handful of well-made items will consistently outperform a drawer full of costume jewelry, both in appearance and longevity. Look for solid metal construction rather than thin plating, which tends to wear through and discolor within months of regular use. Pay attention to clasps and closures u2014 a beautiful necklace with a flimsy clasp is a necklace you’ll eventually lose.

For versatility, prioritize pieces in a metal tone that matches what you already own. Mixing gold and silver can absolutely work stylistically, but if you’re building a foundational collection, consistency makes mixing and matching far simpler.

Choosing a watch that actually gets worn

A watch is one of the few accessories that functions as both a practical tool and a style statement, which is exactly why it’s worth choosing carefully. Before anything else, think about your daily life: a delicate dress watch might look wonderful but won’t survive an active job or a gym habit. A slightly more rugged design with a scratch-resistant face and a comfortable band will get worn daily, while a fussier piece may end up reserved for special occasions only u2014 which, ironically, is often not what people intend when they buy one.

Band material matters as much as the watch face. Leather offers a classic look but requires more care and doesn’t love water exposure. Metal bands are more durable and easier to maintain but can feel heavier. Silicone or rubber bands are the most practical for active lifestyles, though they read more casual.

Caring for jewelry so it lasts

The biggest threat to most jewelry isn’t dramatic damage u2014 it’s slow, cumulative wear from everyday exposure. Perfume, lotion, and hairspray all contain chemicals that can dull metal finishes and discolor certain stones over time, so it’s worth applying these products before putting jewelry on, not after. Storing pieces separately u2014 rather than tangled together in a single drawer u2014 prevents scratching and tangling, particularly for delicate chains.

For everyday pieces, a soft cloth wipe after wear removes oils and residue that build up over time. Occasional deeper cleaning, using lukewarm water and a mild soap for most metals (always check care instructions for specific stones), keeps pieces looking new far longer than sporadic, aggressive cleaning ever will.

Caring for a watch

Watches take a particular kind of daily abuse u2014 knocks against desks, water exposure, temperature swings u2014 so a few habits protect your investment. Avoid extreme temperature changes where possible, as they can affect internal components over time. If your watch isn’t rated for water resistance, keep it off during swimming or heavy exercise. And periodically check the band or strap for wear, since this is usually the first component to fail, long before the watch mechanism itself does.

The bigger picture

Jewelry and watches are rarely about function alone u2014 they’re small, personal signals of taste and care. Buying fewer, better pieces and maintaining them properly means they’ll still look sharp years from now, rather than needing constant replacement. It’s one of the few areas of a wardrobe where a little extra thought upfront pays off for years.