In South East Asia – especially in regions far off the large trade centers – silver has been used as money and store of value ever since. In times of emergency it could be exchanged for food or the national currency. In more recent times silver was also a proven means to protect consumers against the depreciation of money. The display of jewelry helped to gain prestige. Young girls wearing silver pieces had a fairer chance of finding a desirable husband. The bride price was always negotiated in silver, even if it was paid with other products.