Divorced: 5 Ideas for Your Wedding Ring

The wedding ring is a circle. As some marriage officiants explain during a wedding ceremony, that circle represents forever with your partner.

But when “forever” ends a little sooner than expected, you’re left with a piece of metal. We recently talked about when to remove the wedding band after divorce. But after you remove it or your engagement ring, what do you do with it? Here are some ideas to consider.

1. Redesign it. According to Amy Vanderbilt’s 1952 etiquette book, it’s acceptable to repurpose a ring. A jeweler can design something new for you to wear. Vanderbilt suggested wearing the new product on your pinky, but your right ring finger is just fine. Many people choose to turn the diamond into a necklace or even an anklet instead. If you’re feeling more silly, you can buy a wedding ring coffin and display it.
2. Make it an heirloom. Many people choose to save the ring as a keepsake for their children. Remember, your children may decide they don’t want it, but if you feel you want to give them the option, keep it tucked away.
3. Sell it. Despite what marketing may say about the value of a diamond, you won’t get much from a jeweler for either a band or an engagement ring. Still, if you prefer to get rid of the ring and want the money, selling it is a good choice. Try eBay or Craigslist.
4. Donate it. Whether you sell it first or donate the jewelry itself, donation to someone in need or charity is a good way to make something good out of what has fallen apart.
5. Set it free. Some people prefer a more symbolic solution in an effort to heal. If that sounds like your path, try letting it float down a river on a toy boat. You might also put it in a bottle and toss that in the ocean or bury it somewhere for a lucky person to find later.

Before Taking Action
Before you decide to choose one of these options, be sure you are ready. It’s OK to let the ring (or rings) sit in a drawer for a year or 10 before you decide how to handle it. It’s better to feel ready and comfortable with your decision, because you don’t want to look back later and regret it.  

For ideas on what to do with a wedding dress, photos, and other related mementos, check out this post by the Huffington Post.