It's pretty easy to sort through a closet or to clean out a makeup bag. But what about organizing a necklace jewelry box?

1. Be Objective

It's important to remember that some jewelry may never make a comeback, that maybe your future granddaughter might not actually want to wear that beaded puka shell necklace from Claire's. Set aside anything with a vague sentimental value — I'm not suggesting you toss the ring your grandmother got you for your birthday, but rather that pair of earrings you got on the seventh (or was it the eighth?) grade field trip. If a piece of jewelry has been sitting at the bottom of a collection for a while, chances are it probably won't be worn anytime soon.

2. Get Inspired

Some jewelry drowning beneath more recent purchases will most definitely seem worth resuscitating. Be as objective as possible, but if something keeps you on the fence for awhile, give it a try. It's all too easy to revert back to the same pieces day in and day out, but try to force yourself to get inspired by some older pieces of jewelry.

3. Get Thrifty

Once you've decided what to keep and what to clean out, then comes the problem of what to do with whatever you have left. Here, getting thrifty seems to be the best (but certainly not the only) option. Just like clothes, jewelry can easily be sold or donated to a local thrift store. That's right, the pawn shop isn't the only place that accepts old accessories — many vintage shops will happily buy some of those pieces of 90s flair sitting at the bottom of your Caboodle.

4. Get Crafty

So then what about the rest of the jewelry that doesn't make the cut? It just doesn't seem right to throw away necklaces, rings, earrings, and the like, unless, of course, a clasp is broken, a jewel fell off, or the medal turns your skin green. If you aren't willing to go through the process of selling or giving away whatever you have left, then it's time to get crafty.

Jewelry is a beautiful thing, so why not make the most of it and organize it? It helps you find old pieces you thought you lost, repurpose items you aren't crazy about anymore, and feel like life is just a little bit less chaotic, which can never hurt.