What to do with your wedding ring đ after divorce?
When my husband and I separated, I kept staring at the ring on my finger. It no longer belonged on my hand; that much I knew. The symbolism it carriedâunion, love, vows, commitment, a future togetherâwere now painful reminders of what had passed.
But what to do with it?
Deciding what to do with your wedding ring after a divorce is a personal choice, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Here are some options you might consider:
Keep it
Some people keep their wedding ring for sentimental reasons. It can be a personal memento, or a symbol of lessons learned and personal growth.
My ex-spouse is demanding the wedding rings. What are my legal rights?
Youâre not going to like this answer: it depends. Typically, engagement rings are considered gifts, which are categorized as separate property and not subject to division during divorce. In some states, though, the wedding bands can be viewed as marital property. Other considerations might include whether the ring(s) were family heirlooms, or whether they were mentioned in any prenuptial agreements.
If you and your spouse cannot come to an agreement, you might consider mediation to avoid the time and expense of going to court. If that isnât possible, youâll need to consult your divorce attorney about how the laws apply in your situation.
Modify it
You might consider repurposing the ring into a different piece of jewelry, such as a necklace or a bracelet. It can be as simple as stringing it with a chain to wear as a necklace; or as elaborate as hiring a jeweler to melt down metal and reset stones for a bracelet or earrings.
Pass it down
If the ring has sentimental value or is a family heirloom, you might choose to pass it down to a family member, such as a child or a sibling.
Sell it
You can sell the ring and use the money to help you in your next chapter, whether that be helping with rent or mortgage, paying off a credit card, or treating yourself to a special experience.
Donate it
You might consider donating the ring to a charitable organization. This can transform the meaning of the ring into positive change for an important cause.
Return it
Some couples return wedding rings to each other, either as a thoughtful parting of ways, or as a negotiated part of their divorce settlement.
It can be difficult to decide to part with an object that carried so much symbolism during your marriage. Ultimately, itâs the symbolism that youâre repurposing, so I hope you can find a meaningful next chapter for that ringâand more importantly, for yourself!
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