Storage and care

A fingerprint, a hinge or a failed attempt at soaking can cost a stamp much of its value. Here is how to handle stamps, how to store them and what mint never hinged means.

Diamond scratches gold, silver turns black and pearls dry out in plastic. Here is how to store jewellery and gemstones safely, how to clean them and what to leave to a jeweller.

A fingerprint on a silver or proof coin can be permanent. Here is how to handle coins and bars without packaging, and why you should never polish them.

A good loupe, the right tongs and accurate scales: a small toolkit helps you avoid damage and spot more. Here is what you need.

Moisture, light, fluctuating temperatures and the wrong materials do more harm than you might think. Here is how to choose a good spot for coins, banknotes, stamps and jewellery.

Capsule, seal, slab, 2×2 holder, tube or sleeve: each type of packaging has its own purpose. Here is how to choose the right one for coins, bars, banknotes and stamps.

A single fold or grease mark can cost a fine banknote much of its value. Here is how to handle notes, how to store them and what you should never do.