Revamp And Reuse Old Wedding Bands

There are many options for what to do with old wedding bands. Some people choose to repurpose the jewellery, either by having it redesigned and wearing it on their pinkie finger, or turning it into a necklace, anklet, barrette, or toe ring. Others opt to save the ring for their children, either as a keepsake or to use the diamonds or gemstones in their own jewellery. In some cases, people choose to return the ring to their ex-spouse, especially if it was an heirloom. Selling the ring is also an option, and the profits can be used to treat yourself or donate to a worthy cause. For those who want a ceremonial goodbye, creative options include tying the ring to a helium balloon, floating it down a river on a toy boat, throwing it in the trash, or flushing it down the toilet.

Sell it and use the money to treat yourself

Selling your old wedding band can be a great way to get some extra cash to treat yourself. Here are some tips to help you through the process:

Take Time to Prepare

Before you sell, it's important to emotionally prepare yourself, especially if you're selling due to a divorce or the loss of a loved one. Give yourself time to think about what selling your ring might mean and whether you may regret it in the future. If you have children, consider whether you may want to pass the ring on to them one day. If you're selling a deceased relative's ring, discuss the decision with other family members.

Get an Appraisal

It's a good idea to get a formal appraisal from a qualified appraiser to understand the value of your ring, especially if it has diamonds or other precious stones. Look for an independent appraiser who doesn't sell rings to ensure an objective assessment. You can find qualified appraisers through professional associations like the American Society of Appraisers.

Clean and Photograph Your Ring

A sparkling, shiny ring will be more attractive to potential buyers. Most jewellery stores will clean rings for a small fee. Take clear, well-lit photos of your ring from multiple angles to showcase its condition and features.

Choose a Selling Platform

You can sell your ring through various platforms, including online marketplaces like eBay, specialist websites like I Do Now I Don't, local jewellery stores, consignment shops, pawn shops, or diamond dealers. Research and compare different options to find a reputable seller that suits your needs.

Set a Realistic Price

Based on the appraisal and research of similar rings, set a competitive price for your ring. Consider the age and condition of your ring when determining the final price. You may need to discount the price accordingly.

Create a Detailed Listing

When creating your listing, provide a specific and detailed description of your ring, including size, stone type and size, metal type, and any unique features. Include the photos you took to give buyers a clear idea of what they're purchasing.

Ship with Care

If selling online, use shipment tracking and insurance when sending your ring to the buyer. Ask for a tracking number, delivery confirmation, and insurance coverage equal to the sale price of the ring.

Remember to take your time and choose a selling option that you feel comfortable with. Good luck!

Donate it to a charity auction

Donating your old wedding band to a charity auction is a great way to give back to your community while also getting closure on your past relationship. Here are some steps and considerations to help you through the process:

Find a Suitable Charity

Start by researching charities in your area that hold auctions as part of their fundraising efforts. Look for organisations that are aligned with your values and causes that are close to your heart. You can also reach out to charities you already support and inquire if they accept donations for auction.

Prepare the Ring

Before donating your wedding band, it's a good idea to have it professionally cleaned. This will make it more appealing to potential bidders. You should also consider getting the ring appraised to determine its value. This information can be provided to the charity and will be useful for tax purposes.

Understand the Tax Benefits

Donating your wedding band to a charity auction can provide tax benefits. In some jurisdictions, you may be able to claim a tax deduction based on the appraised value of the ring. Be sure to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific rules and regulations in your area.

Share Your Story (if you're comfortable)

Consider sharing the story behind your donation with the charity. This adds a personal touch to your contribution and can make your donation even more meaningful to the organisation and those they serve.

Attend the Auction (if possible)

If you can, try to attend the auction event where your wedding band will be up for bidding. This can be a rewarding experience as you'll get to see your donation in action and witness the impact it will have on the charity. It can also provide a sense of closure as you see your wedding band take on a new purpose in supporting a worthy cause.

Remember, each charity has different procedures for accepting donations, so be sure to reach out and communicate your intentions and ask about any specific requirements they may have.

Pass it down to your children

Passing down wedding rings to your children is a great way to preserve your family's legacy and history. It is a tradition that has been practised for generations, with vintage and unique rings being passed down as family heirlooms. Here are some reasons and guidelines to consider when passing down your wedding band to your children:

Reasons for Passing Down Wedding Rings

Passing down wedding rings to your children is a way to carry on your family's history and traditions. It enhances the feeling that your children are a part of your family's heritage and creates a connection with your ancestors. Additionally, it can be a more budget-friendly option for your children when they start their own families.

Types of Heirloom Rings

Any ring can become an heirloom, and it doesn't have to be passed down directly from parents to children. It can be passed down from aunts, grandparents, cousins, or any family member. Besides traditional wedding rings, other types of heirloom rings include vintage promise rings, claddagh rings, and birthstone rings.

Etiquette for Passing Down Wedding Rings

When considering passing down your wedding band, it is important to communicate with your spouse, their family, and your own family to understand everyone's expectations. Discuss with your spouse whether they are comfortable with the idea of using a family ring, especially if it is from your side of the family. Ensure that the current owner of the ring and other relevant family members are on board with your plans.

Ring Modifications

Some couples may want to modify the heirloom ring to suit their style or preferences. It is important to discuss any proposed modifications with your family to ensure they are comfortable with the changes. Some options include resetting the stone, upgrading the band, or changing the overall look of the ring.

Clean, Resize, Appraise, and Insure

Before passing down the ring, it is essential to have it professionally cleaned and resized if necessary. Get the ring appraised and insured to protect its value and ensure it stays in good condition for future generations.

Passing down your wedding band to your children is a meaningful way to honour your family's history and create a lasting legacy. It is a decision that requires careful consideration and communication with your family to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Redesign it into a new piece of jewellery

Redesigning your wedding band into a new piece of jewellery is a great way to repurpose your ring and give it a new lease of life. This is a particularly good option if your ring has worn down over the years, or if you're looking to mark a new chapter in your life with a fresh piece of jewellery.

There are many ways to redesign your wedding band. You could tweak the design of your existing ring, or you could use a blank canvas and create a completely new, contemporary piece. You could add in some extra diamonds for a little more sparkle, or include the birthstones of your children into the design. If your ring is an antique that has worn down, a jeweller can restore it to its former glory.

If you don't want to redesign the ring itself, you could use the materials to create something new. For example, you could use the diamonds in a new ring, or convert your ring into a necklace, earrings, or a toe ring! You could even create a new piece of jewellery for someone else. For example, you could give the diamond to your child to use in their engagement ring, as one reader on Today.com did.

Redesigning your wedding band is also a great way to close one chapter of your life and start another. Your new piece of jewellery can represent the strong, renewed love you feel for your spouse, or it can be a reminder that there are still many good memories to be made in the future.

Return it to your ex-spouse

Returning your wedding band to your ex-spouse is a noble and generous gesture, especially if the ring was an heirloom from their family. It can be a way to bring closure to the relationship and move on. Here are some thoughts on why and how to do this:

Respect and Generosity

Returning the ring to your ex-spouse can be a respectful and considerate gesture, especially if the ring holds sentimental value for them or their family. It acknowledges the significance of the ring and can be a way to part ways with dignity.

Legal Considerations

In some states, the laws on property division in a divorce may dictate who gets to keep the ring. If the ring was given before the wedding, it is generally considered separate property and belongs to the recipient. However, if it was exchanged during the wedding ceremony, it may be treated as marital property, and the laws in your state will determine its disposition.

Heirloom Rings

If the ring was an heirloom passed down in your ex-spouse's family, returning it becomes even more important. Heirloom rings often carry greater sentimental value, and returning it can be a thoughtful way to honour their family's legacy.

Mutual Agreement

The best way to handle the disposition of the ring is to work out an agreement with your ex-spouse. Communicate with them and try to understand their perspective. If they have a strong emotional attachment to the ring, returning it can be a considerate gesture.

Timing

There is no "right" time to remove and return your wedding band. Do it when you feel ready. Some people remove their rings as soon as their spouse moves out, while others wait until the divorce is finalised. You might choose a time somewhere in between or even leave it on for a while after the divorce if you're not ready to part with it.

Remember, returning your wedding band to your ex-spouse is a personal decision, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Consider your unique circumstances, the legal implications, and the potential impact on your ex-spouse when making your decision.

Frequently asked questions