What's more important than our personal treasures? Having the right kinds of boxes for storing them, of course. Throughout the ages, every society has placed great emphasis and value on boxes that were made from stone, wood, marble, gold, silver, copper, steel, porcelain, crystal, and many other materials. These boxes have been made in all sizes, from prayer boxes that were small enough to be worn as necklaces, to cedar chests and trunks that were large enough to be used for storing household goods. They have been carved, etched, engraved, inscribed, and decorated with beads, jewels, shells, pearls, and symbols of every description. Many of these boxes have been - and still are - the focal points of holiday, family, religious, and secular traditions.

There's no denying the importance of boxes. Sometimes, we spend as much time choosing the perfect box for someone's present as we did in selecting the gift itself; sometimes, the box is the gift. In this category, one of the most popular has always been the cedar chest; and, as everyone knows, it has a long tradition of its own. In days gone by, it was commonly known as a "hope chest," and was customarily given to young women who would use it to accumulate linens, blankets, napery, towels, quilts, and other items that they would need for their households when they got married.

No longer associated with that practice, the cedar chest is more popular than ever. Today, it's cherished by people of all ages - and both sexes - for its beauty and durability, as well as its innate ability to repel insects and resist decay. This traditional chest also helps keep traditions alive, by keeping family heirlooms, photographs, Grandma's quilt, precious holiday ornaments, special linens, laces, and tablecloths, and other keepsakes, perfectly preserved - and smelling great.

Besides its ability to keep things in pristine condition, the cedar chest is a stunning, elegant piece of furniture that will complement any décor, while bringing an air of coziness and warmth to any room. For these reasons, and many more, it makes an ideal holiday, housewarming, wedding, birthday, shower, or anniversary gift for anyone. At CedarStore.com, you'll find the finest in hand-crafted, heirloom-quality cedar chests, in traditional and contemporary designs, including stunning steamer trunks accented with brass-plated hardware and genuine leather straps.

CedarStore.com also has magnificent oak and cherry chests, available in several resplendent shades of stain, and double-coated with lacquer, for a gleaming, durable finish. For smaller gifts that are just as precious, browse their fantastic selection of jewelry boxes and armoires, silverware chests, quilt racks, and other home accents.

In styles from rustic to refined, a cedar chest from CedarStore.com will be the start of a new tradition that will last for generations to come. For more information, or to speak with one of their professional consultants, call 888-293-2339, or e-mail contact@cedarstore.com.