My mom collects Watt pottery. She scandalizes other collectors by eating off it every day. She also found out that it's dishwasher and microwave safe.

I had some friends over for Halloween, and one of them asked for a serving spoon. I pointed to the drawer they were in, and she tutted at me. "This is sterling, isn't it? I'm sure you don't want me using it for... spinach dip." Leaving aside how she can tell solid sterling from plate, I use them all the time. It keeps them tarnish free and makes me feel like a pretty princess.