DEAR ABBY: I am a 50-year-old housewife. After 31 years of marriage, my husband suddenly asked me for a divorce.
Over the years he has given me some very nice pieces of jewelry. I don't want to sell any of it unless I really need the money. It has a lot of sentimental value. Besides, I have seven daughters, two daughters-in-law and several granddaughters whom I would like eventually to inherit my jewelry.
My quandary is this: I would like to continue wearing these pieces occasionally. I also want to continue to wear my wedding rings since, to my way of thinking, I am still bound by the marriage vows we took (twice).
Is there any etiquette governing my situation? -- WONDERING IN TEXAS
DEAR WONDERING: You may continue to wear all of your jewelry in any manner you wish. However, you are still a relatively young woman, and divorced women who entertain the idea of someday marrying again often have the stones from their wedding and engagement rings reset into another kind of ring, which they wear on their right hand.
You would be wise to specify which pieces of jewelry you would like each family member to have. I urge you to consult a lawyer and put it in writing.