Honoring Parents: Wedding Rings And What To Do Next

what to do with deceased parents wedding rings

When a loved one passes on their wedding ring to you, it is natural to want to cherish it. However, you may not want to wear the ring as is, or perhaps it doesn't fit. In such cases, you can repurpose the ring into something more meaningful and useful. For instance, you can melt the ring down and create a new item, such as a pendant or a necklace, or resize it and wear it on a different finger. You could also frame the ring and put it on display in your house with a wedding picture of your parents.

Characteristics Values
Wear as a ring Resize the ring to fit your finger
Wear as a necklace Put the ring on a chain
Incorporate into a pet's collar Get a collar that's the right shape and size so the ring passes through it
Frame the ring with a wedding photo Display the ring with a photo of your parents
Combine two rings into one Melt the rings down and create a new item, such as a custom ring
Redesign the ring Get the ring redesigned into anything you like while retaining its value

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Wear them as pendants on a necklace

If you have inherited your parents' wedding rings, you might want to wear them as pendants on a necklace. This is a wonderful way to keep their memory close to your heart.

Firstly, you should get the rings cleaned and polished by a jeweller. This will allow you to see the rings in their true light and glory, and you may even decide to keep them as they are. If you still want to repurpose them, you can then decide how to proceed.

One option is to resize the rings so that they can be worn on a chain. This is a simple and affordable solution, and it means that you will still be wearing the original rings. However, if the rings are too large, this may not be possible. In this case, you could consider having the rings melted down and made into new pendants. This process can be done by a custom jeweller, who can create a unique design that is meaningful to you. For example, you could have the pendants inscribed with your parents' initials.

If you decide to go down the custom jewellery route, it is a good idea to find a local jeweller who specialises in custom design. This will allow you to work closely with them to create something unique and meaningful. The first design consultation is usually free, so it is worth reaching out to several jewellers before deciding which one to go with.

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Resize and wear the rings

If you have inherited your parents' wedding rings, resizing them can be a great way to keep them in the family and honour their memory. Here are some things to consider if you're thinking of resizing and wearing your deceased parents' wedding rings:

Finding a Jeweller

The first step is to find a reputable jeweller who can resize the rings for you. It is recommended to choose a local jeweller who specialises in custom designs. This way, you won't have to worry about shipping, and you can work closely with the jeweller to create something unique and meaningful. Many custom jewellers offer insured shipping, so if you do need to send your rings, they will be covered in case of loss or theft.

Resizing Options

There are a few different methods for resizing a ring, depending on whether you need to make it larger or smaller. The most common method involves cutting and soldering the band, which is suitable for most metals, including gold, platinum, and silver. If you only need to increase the size by a small amount, stretching the ring may be an option, but this is not suitable for rings with stones or intricate details.

Combining Rings

If you have both of your parents' rings, you could consider combining them into a single ring. This could be a powerful way to symbolise their unity in life and spirit. You could also incorporate any stones from the rings into a new setting, creating a unique and meaningful piece of jewellery.

Wearing the Rings

Once your rings have been resized, you can wear them as a reminder of your parents' love and commitment. You may choose to wear them on your right hand, as your left hand is typically reserved for your own wedding ring. Wearing your parents' wedding rings can be a special way to feel connected to them and keep their memory alive.

Additional Customisations

In addition to resizing, you may want to consider other customisations to make the rings your own. This could include adding new gemstones, engraving significant dates, or creating a more elaborate setting. These changes can reflect your personal style while preserving the sentimental value of the original rings.

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Combine the rings into a new piece

Combining your parents' wedding rings into a new piece of jewellery is a wonderful way to honour their memory and create a unique, wearable item that holds immense sentimental value. Here are some steps and ideas to guide you through this process:

Finding a Jeweller:

Firstly, locate a skilled and experienced custom jeweller who can bring your vision to life. Opt for a local, independent jewellery store or a specialised custom jewellery business that works with clients remotely. Working with a local jeweller has its advantages, such as avoiding shipping and having the opportunity to interact with them in person.

Design Consultation:

Schedule a design consultation with your chosen jeweller to discuss your ideas and explore creative options. Consider whether you want to incorporate specific details from the original rings, such as adding diamonds or gemstones to elevate the new piece aesthetically and emotionally.

Melting and Crafting:

If you decide to melt the rings and create an entirely new piece, be aware that the gold or metal may not be the same after the process. You can also discuss the possibility of cutting and shaping the original rings to create a new design, allowing you to retain some of the original details.

Inscribing and Initialing:

Consider adding a personal touch by inscribing the new piece with your parents' initials or a meaningful message. This can serve as a symbol of their love and a reminder of their presence.

Wearing and Treasuring:

Once your new piece of jewellery is crafted, you can wear it as a constant reminder of your parents' love and legacy. You may also choose to pass it down as a family heirloom, ensuring that your parents' story and memory live on through generations.

Combining your parents' wedding rings into a new piece of jewellery is a heartfelt way to honour their memory and keep their love close to your heart.

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Incorporate into a beloved pet's collar

If you're looking for ways to repurpose your deceased parents' wedding rings, one option is to incorporate them into a beloved pet's collar. This can be a unique and special way to honour your parents' memory and create a sentimental piece of jewellery that you can cherish for years to come. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Find a Custom Jeweller

The first step is to find a trusted custom jeweller who can help you redesign the rings. Most chain jewellery stores may not offer full custom jewellery services, so it's best to look for independent local jewellers or online custom jewellery businesses that work with clients remotely. Working with a local jeweller has its advantages, such as not having to ship your jewellery and building a personal relationship.

Clean and Polish the Rings

Before you begin the redesign process, consider getting the rings cleaned and polished by a jeweller. Seeing the rings in their true light and glory may even inspire you to keep them as they are, passing them down as family heirlooms.

Design Options

There are endless creative options when it comes to redesigning the rings into a pet collar. You can choose to resize and reset any stones in the rings to create a new piece, or you can melt them down to create something entirely new. If you decide to melt them down, keep in mind that the gold will not be the same due to the process of melting and purifying gold in large batches. You can also add a personal touch by inscribing the new piece with your parents' initials.

Collar Style and Colour

When designing the collar, consider your pet's comfort and style. You can opt for a simple and elegant design, such as a leather collar in neutral colours like grey or tan. Alternatively, you can choose a collar that matches your wedding theme or your pet's personality. If you want to include your pet in your wedding, consider a white collar or a floral collar with artificial flowers to match the bouquet.

Ring Bearer Collar

If you're including your pet in your wedding, you can design the collar to hold the wedding rings. Attach a small pouch or box to the collar to securely hold the rings. You can even add a bow tie or a veil to dress up your furry ring bearer for the special day.

Incorporating your deceased parents' wedding rings into your pet's collar can be a unique and heartfelt way to honour their memory. By working with a custom jeweller and exploring various design options, you can create a sentimental piece that celebrates their love and becomes a cherished family heirloom.

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Display them with a wedding photo

If you have inherited your deceased parents' wedding rings, you may want to display them alongside a wedding photo of your parents. This can be a beautiful way to honour their memory and celebrate their enduring love. Here are some ideas to consider:

Cleaning and Polishing:

Before displaying the rings, consider having them cleaned and polished by a professional jeweller. This will help you appreciate their true beauty and decide if you want to keep them as they are or repurpose them.

Shadow Boxes:

Shadow boxes are enclosed glass display cases that can hold important objects and memorabilia. You can design a shadow box to showcase your parents' wedding rings alongside a cherished wedding photo. You may also include other sentimental items, such as their favourite accessories or small belongings, to create a meaningful tribute to their life and your relationship with them.

Cloche Decorations:

For a dramatic and nostalgic display, consider using a cloche (a domed display case). Place the wedding rings and a cherished wedding photo inside the cloche, evoking a sense of antiquated reverence. This simple yet elegant presentation will become a focal point in any room.

Framing:

Another option is to frame the wedding rings alongside a wedding photo of your parents. This creates a visual reminder of their special day and allows you to display the rings in a secure and protected manner. You can hang the framed piece on a wall in your home, keeping their memory close.

Custom Display Cases:

If you're looking for a more customised option, consider commissioning a custom display case for the wedding rings and photo. You can work with an artisan or a local craftsperson to design a unique case that reflects your parents' style or incorporates other meaningful elements. This option allows for a high level of personalisation and can become a cherished family heirloom.

Frequently asked questions

There are many options for repurposing your parents' wedding rings. You can melt them down and create a new item of jewellery, such as a pendant or a new ring. You can also resize the rings and wear them as they are.

Your best option is to find a jewellery business that specialises in custom design. This can be a local jewellery store or an online business.

You can wear the rings on a chain as a necklace, or incorporate them into a beloved pet's collar. You can also frame the rings and display them in your home with a wedding photo of your parents.

Before you decide to repurpose the rings, get them cleaned and polished by a jeweller. Once you see them in their true light, you may want to keep them as they are.

Be aware that the process to melt down and purify gold is usually done in large batches, so you won't be getting the same gold back. Most custom jewellers, however, will melt down small batches for a small additional fee.

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