How to Handle Your Engagement and Wedding Rings After a Divorce

The decision to handle your engagement and wedding rings after a divorce is a poignant moment that carries both emotional and practical weight. Whether you've decided to keep them, sell them, or give them away, it's crucial to consider the symbolic value and the financial aspect of these items. Below, we explore various options and hear stories from other individuals who have had to make these decisions.

Options for Handling Engagement Rings

Engagement rings are often seen as symbols of love and commitment. Even if the marriage doesn’t work out, the ring can hold sentimental value. Some options include:

Giving the Ring to a Child: If you have a daughter, consider giving the ring to her. She can either wear it as is or have the stones reset. The stones can also be passed on to her son for use in his own ring. This practice not only honors the past but also secures the value of the stones for future generations. Selling the Ring: If you need the money or don’t want to deal with the emotional burden, selling the ring can be a practical choice. However, it’s important to research the current market value to avoid selling at a low price. Resetting the Stones: Taking the stone to a jeweler to reset it in a new setting can preserve the emotional value and add a new personal touch. This ensures that the ring remains a precious keepsake. Gift to a Niece/Nephew: Giving the ring to a niece or nephew can be a thoughtful gesture. They can wear it themselves or pass it on in the future, preserving the family heritage.

Regardless of the choice you make, remember that the ring can have multiple uses and lives beyond the end of the marriage.

A Personal Story

One individual shared her experience: 'Before the divorce, I had a previous action filed, and I opted for reconciliation. Even though it didn’t last, the ring remained a symbol of my commitment. I had the stone set in a vintage setting and received a gorgeous new wedding band. Although it was short-lived, diamonds are forever!'

The author kept her wedding rings and was uncertain about their future. She considered giving them to her niece but wondered if the niece would want rings tainted by divorce. She also thought about resetting the stones or not selling them, as she didn’t want to sell at a low price.

'I’ve heard others’ stories and I’m curious about what other people have done with their rings.' The author’s sentiment reflects the diverse range of emotions and actions people take in similar situations.

Another Story

For another individual, things were more challenging. 'I wasn’t there when my ex moved out because I didn’t want to traumatize my two-year-old. I wasn’t wearing my wedding ring when he moved out. He packed up his things, and I was left with the ring!' The experience was painful, emphasizing the need for support during such difficult times.

The ring, a family heirloom, was legally his but temporarily given back to his grandmother. Her response, 'just hold on to these for now because I’m sure you’ll patch this up,' turned out to be a false hope. The author felt she was being naive by thinking they would reconcile, and many people advised her she was crazy.

She decided to give the ring and the family silver back, but she still felt the decision was the right one, even if it felt wrong at the time.

These stories highlight the complex emotional and practical decisions one must make when handling engagement and wedding rings after a divorce. Each person’s journey is unique, and the options for handling these rings can help preserve the love and memories associated with them.

Keywords: engagement ring, wedding rings, divorce