What to Do About "The Silver?"

What About “The Silver”?

If you have the good fortune of fine silver tucked away in closets consider these possibilities:  

1.   “Use it”

Certainly, it’s a matter of taste, but polished and used every day, silver’s beauty becomes serviceable, familiar, comfortable. Bring it out of hiding, polish it, and experiment. Children will be less skittish and more appreciative. You’ll find yourself intrigued by shapes and patterns. You’ll find a use.

2.   Enjoy a Bit of History

Silver’s history is extensive. Allow yourself a little online reading time. Enjoy knowing the development of the ancient art of silversmithing, and the little known medicinal and industrial purpose of this precious metal.  Be surprised by origin of “born with a silver spoon” and “every cloud has a silver lining.” Recall the history of the silver you have.

3.   Seek an Appraisal; Learn Basic Terms and Financial Value

If you wish to let go of the silver, find an appraiser. It’s unsettling to give up your silver without understanding the value and possibility of your treasure. The one piece that may be tarnished and neglected may turn out to have historical significance and value. Don’t polish your silver in advance of an appraisal.

To ease the consultation, familiarize yourself with a few terms. Basics such as “sterling” and “silver plate” and “hallmarks” will be a good start.   Prepare yourself to hear that the market value is low.  You may learn that melting your pieces for metal is an option. 

4.   Consider a Gift

If you have a piece of particular beauty and newfound purpose, consider giving it to a friend or family member. Heirlooms with a story can be appreciated. 

Theater companies with a prop department may have use for candelabras and serving dishes.

Was your experience with “the silver” only on special occasions?  Are you concerned that if used it will be scratched, nipped, or thrown out by mistake?  Is the inevitable tarnish a hindrance? Are you concerned about appearing ostentatious? 

I’d love to offer an empathetic free consultation. Please contact me.  

What Should You Do With Your Journals and Diaries?

Many of us keep journals which record our days’ events and innermost thoughts. Some of us inherit these historical volumes from a loved one who has passed away.  The question inevitably arises what to do with them.  Will anyone be interested or care? What level of privacy do we seek? Might the records be of value to an archive?

There is no right answer, and there is seldom an easy answer.  But, if you’re faced with a large set of personal journals, here are the options to consider:

1. Leave the journals for those who will inherit your estate

You’re passing the buck, but that’s fine.  Consider leaving a note with the journal dates, and your wish for their disposition, including the freedom to dispose of them at any time. 

2. Contribute the journals to an archive such as a library or college museum

If you’re someone of note or have corresponded with someone of note, you may be able to contribute your journals to an archive.  Similarly, if you’ve described a period or event of consequence such as a world war or social movement, this option may be a good one.  In either event, it will take a little research to find an interested party.

3. Adapt the journals into a memoir or summary of your life’s highlights for your loved ones

Some of us inherit family papers which we’re happy to have though we seldom create time to read them. Therefore, at a minimum, if you bequeath your journals to a descendent or friend, consider also writing a summary of your life which is more digestible.

4. Destroy them

Burn your journals?  Many arrange a bonfire or use a shredder to spiritually release their written past and embrace the present and future.  It takes courage and resolve to let go of these written memories.  Many are not ready for this, but some are.

5. Do nothing

Most of us will choose this option even though we know we are burdening someone else with the decision-making.

Of course, some of the above options can be done in combination.

You are not alone if you are unsure how to proceed with your journals.  Many of us face this decision. If this describes you, feel free to reach out to me for an empathetic, free consultation.