I've inherited something triggering and now don't know what to do with it

[janefondasleotard]

Hoping someone else who's experienced something similar might be able to pass on some advice. My mum died last year, I loved her dearly but it was a very difficult relationship with very difficult memories. Her watch was something she never ever took off so feels especially symbolic of all the years of difficulty. I inherited her high end watch. When I look at it I see years and years of things I'd rather forget. My ideal would be to sell the watch and buy a piece of jewellery that sparked joy and positive feelings, something to resemble the good times, that in turn I could pass on to my DD. On a practical level I have no idea where I would sell it, its not something I have any clue about...

If anyone has any other ideas of how I can create some light from something that feels dark I'd love to hear.

Take it into jewellers locally - pref two or three - and get a valuation

I think your idea of selling it and buying something else in its place is a great idea.

How old is DD? Could she help you 'design' something that has positive memories of your relationship with her? Even if she's quite little it could have a shape or colour stone she likes.

I would look around and find a sensitive jeweller who could share some expertise. I used a small family jeweller to get an inherited piece reset and they were fantastic. The first couple I tried didn't feel right and I'm so glad I didn't use them as it was important to me for it to 'feel right'

A word of warning, I've heard sometimes second hand pieces don't hold their value well (I'm not an expert and have no idea what your mum's watch is like of course) so it might be worth checking early on so you know what the parameters are

I know you're not planning on getting it reset, sorry that wasn't clear in my message, just that it could be good to talk it through with someone with industry knowledge

Even halfway through your post I was thinking 'sell it and buy something you like instead' before I realised you had the same idea!

Ask at a local jewellers or watch repair place for valuations, or a local auction house (if you have one).

It's only a year. Put it away and tell yourself you will think about it again in 12 months. At the moment there are too many emotions attached to it for you to think dispassionately about it.

Could you put it to the back of your mind for another year and take a decision then?

Thank you for all your responses! I really like the idea of my daughter helping to design something, it makes it feel extra special. I am due to move and its not something I want to carry around with me. I will try our local jeweller and see what they say.

Make sure to get several valuations (minimum of 3), if it's something you think could be quite valuable.