An engagement ring is a precious symbol of your commitment towards a serious relationship. It symbolizes a promise between two people, signaling what could be the beginning of a bright and loving future together.
But what do you do when after a few years of marriage you end up in the divorce courts? What should you do when you are left holding material possession of a valuable piece of jewelry — now the only physical reminder of what once was?
When all the tears have been wiped away and the emotions are no longer quite as shaky, you’ll need to figure out what to do next. Moreover, the topmost question on your mind is bound to be; what do I do with my engagement and wedding rings?
For some whose marriages ended amicably, the rings are simply set aside as sentimental reminders of better times in the marriage. For others, the rings may carry a lot of still strong emotions, which unfortunately may not be quite as happy. So, if you’re among those who are ready to let go of the rings that are keeping you depressingly rooted to the past, here are a few options to consider.
Return It
If you really want to close the book on that life chapter, you could offer the ring to your ex-spouse and be totally rid of any reminders of your failed marriage. Some people believe that possessions can carry “bad juju,” so it’s better to get rid of stuff that’s weighing you down and keeping you from moving forward and attracting better karma.
Repurpose It
Traditional etiquette after a divorce dictates that you may keep your engagement ring, but have it redesigned by a reputable jeweler. If you love the stone, you can have the ring itself melted down and have a new setting made – another ring, a pendant, or a bracelet charm. All of them could symbolize the change you are going through and the fresh start you’ll be having.
If your engagement ring has multiple stones, you could create separate pieces for each stone and distribute them to your children as reminders of the union that helped create them. It’s a sentimental gesture that would give them keepsakes that they could eventually pass on to their own children someday.
Have Some Fun with It
Divorce, no matter how amicable, always comes at a financial cost. That once singular reminder of love is now a viable asset that you could liquidate to your advantage. After the endless and tiring court proceedings, why not treat yourself to a dream vacation, new clothes, or even new jewelry once the papers are signed and your newfound singlehood is guaranteed?
Who Do You Sell It To?
When selling your engagement ring, there is a multitude of options available. There are the online platforms like eBay and Craigslist. You could also sell it through auction houses, newspaper or internet ads, or traditional pawnshops. They all offer a possibly quick and easy exchange for your engagement ring, but given the ease with which you could dispose of it, you may not get the top offer you had hoped for.
Instead, you could opt to sell your engagement ring to a reputable lending and buying institution like Biltmore Loan & Jewelry. With a long and untarnished reputation for giving fair and free appraisals with no commitment from you to sell, they’re one of the most reliable and reputable companies out there who will give you an honest valuation on your items.
You can reach Biltmore Loan & Jewelry through their website, where you simply fill out an appraisal form with a description of the ring you wish to sell. Include a few detailed photos as well, if you can. They’re pretty prompt about getting back to you.
How you ever finally decide, make sure you’ve thoroughly researched your options and are comfortable with whatever decision you make so you can move forward without regret.