Lyla Dejesus
The death of a spouse is one of the most challenging experiences one may face, and deciding what to do with wedding rings can be difficult. Some choose to continue wearing their ring, perhaps moving it to their right hand, while others may redesign it, adding a memorial diamond made from their spouse's ashes or hair. Some may opt to bury the ring with their spouse or let it go in the ocean, while others may keep it in a memory box or pass it on as a family heirloom. Selling the ring to pay off debts or fund a trip can also be an option. Ultimately, the decision is deeply personal, and there is no right or wrong choice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Continue wearing the ring | To feel safe, to feel married, to hold onto memories |
| Move the ring to the right hand | To indicate current unmarried status, as a step towards letting go of the past |
| Redesign the ring | To modernise or transform its look, to resize for comfort, to restore its brilliance |
| Incorporate the ring into a new piece of jewellery | To adapt it to personal style, to create a family heirloom |
| Pass the ring to children or grandchildren | To share the love the ring symbolises, to keep the ring in the family |
| Bury the ring with the spouse | To symbolise moving forward, to provide a sense of closure |
| Sell the ring | To pay off debt, to fund a trip |
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What You'll Learn
Redesigning the ring to modernise its look
Redesigning your parent's wedding ring is a way to honour their memory while making it more relevant to your present and future. It is a chance to hold on to the original piece while adding a modern flair.
Firstly, it is important to remember that redesigning a ring is an intimate and emotional process. It is a personal journey and reimagining the ring is not about letting go, but about celebrating the journey ahead. Consulting a trusted jeweller can help bring your vision to life and ensure the process is handled with care.
There are many ways to redesign a ring to modernise its look. One option is to add a memorial diamond made from your parent's ashes or a lock of hair. This alters the appearance of the ring while adding an extra-special element. You could also add two gems to create a three-stone ring, with smaller diamonds placed on either side of the original diamond to increase its size. Alternatively, you can add gems in a "halo", leaving the original diamond in the centre while surrounding it with gems, increasing the sparkle and size of the ring.
If you want to modernise the ring while keeping the original diamond, you can simply remake the setting. You could also add coloured gemstones, like rubies or sapphires, to add a burst of unique colour. Another option is to replace the original band with a family ring, such as one from another loved one, to symbolise legacy and love.
Finally, it is important to remember that trends come and go, and what feels like a good idea now may be regretted later. Stick with something that is true to your innate style and a piece that truly feels classic to you.
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Adding a memorial diamond made from your spouse's ashes
The process of creating a memorial diamond involves extracting carbon from your spouse's ashes or hair and then converting it into graphite. Using high pressure and high temperature, the graphite is transformed into a diamond. Each diamond is unique, just as your spouse was, and the size may vary depending on the creation process.
There are several companies that offer memorial diamond services, such as EverDear, ALGORDANZA, and Saint Diamonds. Prices for these diamonds generally start at $995, and some companies offer financing plans to make them more accessible. The creation process can take around 11 months, and you can choose from different cuts and colours to personalize your diamond.
When adding a memorial diamond to your wedding ring, you can either set the diamond discreetly or prominently, depending on your preference. Some people may choose to add a colourful diamond to bring the ring into the everyday cocktail ring category, while others may prefer a white diamond to maintain the ring's original look.
Memorial diamonds allow you to carry your spouse's love and energy with you wherever you go. It is a way to keep them close and honour their memory, transforming their legacy into an everlasting treasure.
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Burying the ring with your spouse
Deciding what to do with your wedding ring after the death of your spouse can be a challenging and deeply personal decision. One option is to bury the ring with your spouse, which can be a meaningful experience that provides a sense of closure. Here are some things to consider if you choose to bury the ring:
Timing
There is no right or wrong time to bury the ring. You may choose to do it at the time of your spouse's burial, or you may need more time to grieve and make this decision later. The grieving process is different for everyone, and it's important to take the time you need to heal and reflect on what feels right for you.
Location
Consider the location of the burial site and whether it is accessible and meaningful to you. You may choose to bury the ring at the gravesite of your spouse or in a special location that holds significance for both of you, such as a favourite spot you enjoyed visiting together.
Ceremony
You may wish to have a small ceremony or ritual when burying the ring. This could be a private moment for yourself or a gathering of family and friends to honour your spouse's memory. You can include readings, music, or any other elements that feel meaningful to you.
Combining Rings
If you have both your ring and your spouse's ring, you may choose to bury them together. This can be a way to symbolise the unity and love you shared. You might also consider having the rings soldered together before burial, creating a physical bond that reflects the enduring connection between you and your spouse.
Marking the Spot
Consider how you would like to mark the burial spot. You might choose to place a memorial plaque, plant a tree, or create a small garden to honour your spouse's memory. Marking the spot can provide a tangible reminder of your love and a place for you to visit and reflect.
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Selling the ring to pay off debt
Wedding rings are often imbued with sentimental value, symbolizing love, commitment, and personal history. However, selling your parents' wedding rings to pay off debt is a practical option that can provide financial relief. Here are some considerations to keep in mind as you navigate this decision:
Navigating the Grieving Process
The grieving process is unique to each individual, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Take your time to mourn and reflect before making any decisions about the wedding rings. It is a personal choice whether to continue wearing the rings, modify them, or sell them. Some people choose to keep wearing their wedding rings, move them to their right hand, or wear them on a chain around their neck as a symbol of their enduring love and connection to their spouse.
Understanding the Financial Implications
Before selling the wedding rings, it is essential to carefully consider your financial situation and explore alternative options for debt repayment. Evaluate the value of the rings and whether selling them will significantly impact your debt burden. Consult with financial experts or advisors to explore other debt relief strategies that may be available to you.
Ethical and Emotional Considerations
Selling wedding rings can be emotionally challenging. It is important to recognize that wedding rings are often viewed as more than just jewelry. They represent a symbol of commitment and hold sentimental value. If you decide to sell the rings, ensure that you are emotionally prepared for this step and that it aligns with your values and beliefs.
Legal Considerations
Depending on your location, there may be legal implications to consider before selling the wedding rings. In some states, the ownership of engagement and wedding rings can be subject to legal interpretations, especially in cases of divorce or separation. Consult with legal professionals to understand the specific laws and rights pertaining to the sale of wedding rings in your region.
Selling Process and Valuation
If you decide to sell the wedding rings, research reputable jewelry buyers or auction houses to ensure you receive a fair price. You may also consider selling to a private buyer, but exercise caution and prioritize your safety when interacting with potential buyers. Have the rings professionally appraised to determine their value and consider getting multiple valuations to ensure accuracy.
In summary, selling your parents' wedding rings to pay off debt can be a complex decision involving financial, emotional, and ethical considerations. Take the time you need to navigate your grief and explore all options before making a choice that aligns with your personal values and financial goals.
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Passing the ring on to your children or grandchildren
Deciding what to do with a wedding ring after the death of a spouse can be a challenging and deeply personal decision. While some people continue to wear their wedding rings, others may choose to redesign them, sell them, or pass them on to their children or grandchildren.
Passing on the ring to the next generation is a way to keep it in the family, ensuring it is kept in good hands and allowing you to share the love that the ring symbolises. This can bring comfort to those grieving the loss of a spouse. You could pass on the ring as an heirloom, or gift it to your child or grandchild to use as their wedding ring.
Another option is to have the ring redesigned or melted down and made into new pieces of jewellery for your children or grandchildren. This could be a meaningful way to celebrate your spouse's life and the memories you shared with them. You could add a gemstone or a memorial diamond made from your spouse's ashes or a lock of hair to the ring or a new piece of jewellery, creating a unique item that brings the two of you together forever.
If you are not ready to part with the ring, you could keep it in a safe location, such as a box for items that are close to your heart, or a memory box for your spouse. Alternatively, you could display the ring in a shadow box, surrounded by reminders of your partner, such as their favourite pen or a pair of sunglasses they often wore.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many options for what to do with a wedding ring after the death of a spouse. Some people continue to wear the ring, either on their ring finger or moved to their right hand. Others may redesign the ring, for example, by adding a memorial diamond made from their spouse's ashes or hair. You could also choose to bury the ring with your spouse or let it go out into the ocean.
A wedding ring is a symbol of love and commitment and can provide comfort to the person grieving. It can be a reminder of the love and memories shared with their spouse.
Everyone grieves differently, and for some, a wedding ring can be a constant reminder of their loss. Taking it off can be a way to signal to others that they are available.
If you no longer want to wear your wedding ring, you could redesign it and turn it into a new piece of jewellery, such as a pendant or brooch. You could also include parts of your spouse's ring in the new design. Alternatively, you could sell the ring, pass it on to your children or grandchildren as an heirloom, or bury it with your spouse.
