Displaying Your Collection

The less an item is handled, the less likely it is to get chipped, scratched, or broken.  So generally it is better to display your collection under glass so that it does not have to be dusted or cleaned.

A large, lighted display case is a good option, but by far not your only option.

Small, ornate, lay-down items can be effectively displayed in a vitrine display table. 

Small items and mini perfumes may be displayed in an old printer’s type tray. 

Other collectors have cleverly converted empty vintage glass-front clock cases found at an antique store into display cases.  

Rows of smaller items can also be displayed in wall cases originally designed to display model train cars. 

Click HERE to view a YouTube video of more display options.

The only real limitation is your ingenuity.

Whatever your choice of display case, where you place it in your home is of critical importance:

• Strong sunlight is one of the biggest enemies.  It can fade fabric, dry out and fade packaging, turn older clear glass into a pale lavender shade, dull the shine of gilt metal items, craze enamel finishes on compacts, etc.
• Stable temperature is also important.  Avoid placing your display case too close to an HVAC vent, which would cause temperature fluctuations.
• It is also important to avoid humidity extremes such as a damp basement room or bathroom.  Moisture can mildew fabrics or cardboard presentation boxes, loosen gilding, or turn foil-backed rhinestones dark.

If you prefer to store your compacts in drawers or boxes, remove all the powder.  Wrap them in acid-free tissue, and do not completely seal any plastic bags, let them breathe a little.

NOTE: Do not display your compacts in a completely enclosed case – they need to breathe so the metal and enamel don’t become dry or tarnished.