Following a failed engagement or divorce, many people often wonder and ask, “Should I give back my engagement ring?” This question sparks controversy, leading to a debate on the appropriate course of action. Of course, what you do with the ring can be a reflection of how the relationship ended, and on what terms you stand with your ex-partner. For example, some people think if your partner was unfaithful, you should keep the ring and do what you want with it, whilst those who agree to separate on mutual terms may feel a sense of disconnection from the item and will happily return it to the original owner.
We asked journalist and founder of The Cut Jewellery, Talitha Cummins, to weigh in on what she sees people do with their engagement rings if they choose not to give it back and why they do it.
A Repurpose
Some women who decide to keep their engagement ring will often repurpose the diamond, turning it into a necklace or another piece of jewellery to reflect the new season in their lives. Typically, the process of repurposing a ring is quite easy and therefore is an effective way to keep its value and use it elsewhere.
This concept went viral earlier this year when Emily Ratajkowski decided to repurpose her ring into a “divorce ring”. In Ratajkowski’s case, she had a very public divorce so for her, her divorce ring “represents [her] own personal evolution”, which we admire.
A Keepsake
Typically, those with children may decide to hold onto the ring to one day hand it down to their daughter or son. While their parents’ relationship didn’t last, it produced their children, so keeping the ring as an heirloom is common.
On the flip side, if the ring given during the engagement was a family heirloom, it could be a reason to give it back.
Saphire engagement ring worn by Katherine Middleton which was originally worn by Princess Dianna. Image: Fenton
A Sale
Some people choose to sell the ring and invest the money in something else. This is often done by those who feel that their partner wasted their time and want to detach themselves from the emotions of the relationship in order to start a new chapter in their lives.
When speaking to Talitha, she reflected on her recent poll on social media asking her audience what they would do. 70% of women said that they would likely keep the ring, even if the wedding didn’t happen. Some of the responses included:
“It really depends on who broke up with whom.”
“If I broke up with my fiancé or husband, I may choose to give it back to him.”
“If it is a family heirloom, I would give it back. If not, and if he broke up with me, I would think twice before giving it back” and simply
“No – as with any gift.”
So, what would you do?
Learn about engagement ring trends for 2024 here.
Learn about Talitha and The Cut here.
