Nowadays, silverware is considered something special. In our age of practical stainless steel, using silver seems to make less sense than it did in the past; silver tarnishes when exposed to air – stainless steel doesn't, which makes the latter infinitely easier to clean. However, an old set of your grandmother's good silver is priceless to you, though you may have very little call to use it. In fact, except for special occasions, many people are somewhat wary of ruining their antique flatware, meaning that for most of the year, except for Thanksgiving, it's probably just sitting around in a cabinet.

With the recent passing of what is known as "engagement season" – the time around Christmas and Valentine's Day when people tend to propose to their significant others – many of you have probably gotten started on a gift registry or received some lovely anniversary gifts. If you received silver dinnerware, of course you want to keep it looking shiny and new.

Are you hosting the holidays this year? Before you break out the good silver for your parties and gatherings, learn how to avoid tarnishing your beloved silver valuables.