An item passed down through the generations can be an important element in worldbuilding. Narratively, they find many uses, from illuminating the true lineage of kings, to possessing immense magical power, to simply holding great sentimental importance. They act to connect the past with the present and can provide clues about historical events. Like relics, they may often be lost and later found.

Heirloom Examples

• A clock ticking backwards
• A broken sword
• Half of a letter
• A locket
• An ancient key
• A treasure map

Family heirlooms may be directly connected to a persons culture, and the passing of an heirloom from one generation to another may be a tradition.