Been married for 35 years..got my china as wedding gifts. Used it, very carefully, for special occasions. I wanted to "save" it for my Son and Daughter. Because, of course, being old it would be worth something. Hahaha. Went on EBay and my Noritake, retired pattern, is worth next to nothing. So I pulled it out and I'm going to use it. I love it and it's not doing anyone any good sitting in fancy china boxes. Son and Daughter can enjoy it now, with me. Funny you asked this question....we just went through this, too.