What to Do with An Engagement Ring After Divorce

At some point, those who have been through a divorce may need to decide what they will do with the engagement ring they received from their spouse. Most people do not want to continue wearing it, as it is seen as a symbol of their previous relationship.

Below are a few things you might do with your engagement ring after a divorce:

• Give it back: There is some old-fashioned etiquette regarding engagement ring returns that states that if the woman broke the engagement or marriage, she should return the ring, but if the man breaks it off, the woman should keep it. This may be a little antiquated for our current times, so do what makes the most sense to you. If you see an opportunity to return it, consider doing so.
• Keep it as a sentimental heirloom: If you decide you will keep your ring, you can keep it as an heirloom to give to a daughter or granddaughter someday — or to a son or grandson to give to his future spouse. You might also take the stone and set it into a different piece of jewelry.
• Sell it: If you keep the ring, but do not have much emotional attachment to it, you can sell it. You will almost certainly get nothing near the original value, but it is cash you didn’t have before for a piece of jewelry you did not want to keep anyway.

Ultimately, the decision of what you will do with your engagement ring is yours. For the guidance and advice you need when approaching the divorce process, meet with a trusted Long Island family law attorney at Bryan L. Salamone & Associates.