Oh I hear ya! It's probably my biggest pet peeve. Depending on what it is I may just replace it or forget it and go on to something else.
I'm sick over a recent loss. My youngest son made my husband and me gorgeous sterling silver rings when he got married. He and his wife enlisted the help of a neighbor who was a jeweler to help. He presented them to us at the bridal table. I wore that ring every single day of my life and wanted it forever.
One day I cleaned it with silver cleaner.I remember putting it in a paper towel to dry. I thought I put it in my pocket. Well it's been about 8 months and it's nowhere. I'm so sad about it. I have an awful feeling I threw it out.
I wish I could let it go but I can't.