One of the topics that I see pop up in the single moms and divorced moms groups that I belong to on Facebook is what to do with one’s rings after a divorce. It’s not a question any of us thought we’d have to ponder on the day we received said rings, but if you’re like the 50% or so of us that have found themselves single again found themselves single again , you just aren’t sure what to do with it. I still have my set and am in no rush to get rid of it because let’s face it – once it’s gone, it’s gone. So if I ever decide to part ways with it, I want to be sure I make the smartest choice.
Depending on the nature of your divorce, your engagement ring could either be a sentimental piece of jewelry or a symbol of pain. Needless to say, most women probably hide their ring in a drawer, where it is out of site, out of mind. However, there are many different options you can do with this lingering piece of jewelry that could make for a healthy and necessary fresh start!
Return it
The last thing you may want to do is return your ring to your ex, especially if things ended on harsh terms. However, there is a proper ring etiquette that should be followed. This is particularly appropriate if the ring is one of his family’s heirlooms. And let’s be honest: if you gave someone one of your family’s heirloom’s and then they divorced you, you would want it back, am I right? It comes down to simply having class and consideration.
Now returning the ring to your ex does come with some perks, and they are utterly emotional. Returning your ring will rid you of the feeling you get when you look down at the ring, which can help you in the process of moving on with your life.
Repurpose the diamond
If you are able to keep your ring and are still in love with it and wish to keep it around, then consider repurposing your diamond. Hold on to the ring to one day hand down to a future daughter or granddaughter, or perhaps gift it to a son or grandson to present to his partner. This could take your bitter memories that are attached to the ring and turn them into a positive idea of new beginnings.
Another idea to keep in mind is to consider having the setting of your ring melted down and made into a pendant that you can wear, or have handed down to your children. In addition to melting down the setting, if your ring has more than one stone you can easily repurpose the diamonds, along with any other gemstones to create several custom necklaces, rings, or other items made to gift your children or grandchildren with. One of the major perks of taking this route is that it will not only represent a new fresh start in life, but will also create a family connection through the jewelry made to be passed down from generation to generation.
Trade it in or sell it
If continuing to wear your ring is no longer an option, consider two scenarios: trading it in for a new style or selling it. If you do decide you are emotionally ready to sell your ring, then why not treat yourself with the money you get in return? Go on a nice vacation, put money down on the dream car you’ve always wanted or maybe even buy yourself a meaningful piece of jewelry in its place, as a symbol of new beginnings. Regardless of the decision made, just remember that there is no right or wrong way to go about it, just do what feels right for you!
I’d love to hear from you if you’ve been thru a divorce – what did you do with your rings? Do you wish you’d done something differently than what you did?
