A single mother in China is distraught after her daughter accidentally sold a kettle containing the family's entire savings in gold jewelry.

The mother, identified as Ms. Wei from Zhengzhou, Henan province, had hidden approximately 60 grams of gold items, including necklaces, pendants, earrings, and rings, inside an old electric kettle for safekeeping. The collection was estimated to be worth around 100,000 yuan.

Ms. Wei, who is raising two children alone in a small rented apartment, explained she had concealed the valuables in the kettle because their living space was cramped, shared with others, and she feared the children might mishandle them. She believed the kettle was a secure hiding spot.

Tragically, her 15-year-old daughter, while gathering recyclables to sell, included the old kettle with the rest of the scrap without realizing its precious contents. Ms. Wei saw the kettle being taken but had momentarily forgotten about the gold inside.

The devastating discovery was made four or five days later. When Ms. Wei approached the scrap dealer, she was told they had not seen any gold.

The incident has taken a severe emotional and physical toll on Ms. Wei, who said she has been unable to sleep for a week and has lost weight due to the stress of losing what she described as her entire family's assets.

Through her ordeal, she wishes to warn others to ensure their valuable possessions are stored in a secure and memorable location.