DEAR ABBY: I inherited my mom's engagement ring a few years ago when she passed away. I don't know what to do with it now. It appraised for $3,500, but I understand that is full retail. Female friends say I need to keep it to give to a special woman (or use the stone for another ring to offer her).
I'm almost 50 and haven't been in a relationship in many years. My last date was nearly 10 years ago, so I am thinking it is not likely I will ever have anyone to share the ring with. I hate for it to sit in a box until I am gone for someone else to deal with.
Do you think I should sell it or continue to hold onto it? I live a debt-free life after paying off my house a couple of years ago, so the extra money isn't a necessity. -- DAVID IN KENTUCKY
DEAR DAVID: Gems are meant to be enjoyed, and it is doing no one any good sitting in a drawer, a cupboard or a safe. If you have no relatives who might like to have the ring or the stone, then sell it.