Once you begin a jewelry collection you are soon going to notice that you have a problem, a mess of jewelry with no home. It's time to purchase a jewelry box.

Before you buy, make sure you are getting the jewelry box that is best for your needs. Here are some questions you need to ask yourself:

• How much jewelry do you have / are you planning to have? The more jewelry, the more space you need. Also if you are partial to one kind of jewelry (rings, earrings, necklaces) make sure there is extra room for that style in the jewelry box, so items can be put away neatly and orderly.

• How much space do you have? Decide where a jewelry box will go, and take appropriate measurements to find a box that will fit the space. If you have a lot of jewelry, but not a lot of counter space, you may want to look for a tall, floor-model jewelry box that will be a piece of furniture in itself.

• Is this for show or protection? Some jewelry boxes are completely solid, with your jewelry inside, others offer glass panels to display, and show off, some of your beauties.

• Will it hold more than jewelry? Many jewelry boxes are also spaces for other family heirlooms or special papers and items. If yours will be serving this purpose, make sure you have the correct amount of storage space for these items.