Wedding Bands: When To Reclaim And Recommit

Losing a spouse is one of the most difficult experiences a person can go through. After the loss of a partner, the world changes forever. The grieving process is different for everyone, and there is no right or wrong way to handle it. One of the hardest decisions to make is what to do with the wedding ring, a symbol of love and commitment. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the decision is deeply personal.

Some people choose to continue wearing their wedding ring, as it makes them feel safe and connected to their spouse. It can be a comforting reminder of the love and life shared with their partner. For others, the ring becomes a painful reminder of their loss, and they may decide to remove it. There is no timeline for this decision, and it is essential to take the time to weigh the options and do what feels right.

Move it to your right hand

Moving your wedding ring to your right hand is a common practice for widowed people. This can be a good first step if you are still struggling to let go of your spouse. Moving the ring to your right hand diminishes the significance of wearing it on your left hand, which is the hand that signifies marriage.

Moving your wedding ring to your right hand can be a way to transition to a new way of wearing your ring. It is still being worn and is visible to you when you look down at your hands, but it also signifies that you are a widow or widower. This can make it easier when dealing with new people as you won't have to explain your marital status as much.

However, some people see this move as a sign that you might be open to and ready for dating again. If this is not the case, you may want to choose another option or be prepared to let people know that you are not, in fact, ready to date. Some people choose to keep wearing the ring on their right hand forever, while others only do so temporarily.

If you are remarried, it is typical to completely remove a right-handed wedding ring. It is uncommon for people to continue to wear their old wedding rings once they are remarried. But this is a very personal choice, and everyone will come to a different decision.

Wear it on a necklace

After the death of a spouse, people may choose to wear their wedding ring on a necklace. This is a way to keep the ring close to their heart, serving as a reminder of their spouse and their marriage. It is also a commonly recognised symbol of widowhood, which can save the wearer from having to explain their marital status to others.

Some people may choose to wear their wedding band on a chain by itself, while others may opt to add their spouse's wedding band to the necklace as well. This can be a simple yet meaningful way to symbolise the marriage covenant they shared with their spouse.

Wearing a wedding ring on a necklace can be a comforting way for a grieving person to hold onto memories of their spouse. It can also provide a sense of security during a time when they may feel scared or lonely. For some, it may be a way to feel like their spouse is still with them, keeping their memory alive.

Additionally, wearing a wedding ring on a necklace can be a transitional step for those who are not yet ready to take the ring off completely. It can be a way to gradually move towards a new phase of life, allowing the wearer to eventually put the ring away or pass it on to the next generation as an heirloom.

Ultimately, the decision to wear a wedding ring on a necklace after the death of a spouse is a personal one. It can be a way to keep the physical symbol of love close and honour the memory of a loved one.

Redesign it

Redesigning your wedding ring is a great way to honour your spouse's memory and imbue your new piece of jewellery with personal history and meaning. It allows you to continue wearing the ring without having to explain its meaning to those around you.

If you decide to redesign your wedding ring, you can choose to add elements or remove certain details to create something new that you can carry into a new chapter of your life. You can also choose to add a memorial diamond to your wedding ring. This is a diamond made from your spouse's cremated remains or hair, which can be customised in shape, size and colour to make it as unique as your spouse.

There are many ways to redesign your wedding ring. You could:

• Melt the ring down and turn it into a pendant or coin, perhaps with your spouse's name or your wedding date engraved on it.
• Turn it into a fingerprint ring with your spouse's fingerprint etched around the band.
• Take the stones from your wedding band and put them on a brooch or a necklace.
• Have the gold and diamonds from your original ring reused to create a new design.

When redesigning your wedding ring, it's important to find a jeweller who you feel comfortable with. You may want to meet with a few jewellers to find the right person to help you with this sensitive task.

Bury it with your spouse

Burying your wedding ring with your spouse is a way to express your love physically and symbolically. It is a way to keep your wedding bands close to your spouse's heart as they meet their final resting place. It is a common practice for families to bury their loved ones with special tokens, and your wedding ring can be a way to keep your love alive even after your spouse's death.

If you decide to bury your wedding ring with your spouse, you can ask for the ring to be placed on their finger or kept somewhere on their person. This can provide a sense of closure and comfort, knowing that your ring is with them. It is important to note that once the ring is buried, there is no way to retrieve it. Therefore, you should be certain about your decision before proceeding.

Burying your wedding ring with your spouse can be a meaningful way to say your final goodbye and honour the life you shared together. It is a way to symbolically move forward while still keeping the memory of your marriage close. The grieving process is different for everyone, and burying your wedding ring can be a healing experience as you navigate this difficult time.

Additionally, you may want to consider having a burial ceremony for your ring, separate from the funeral or memorial service. This can be a time to celebrate your marriage and say goodbye to this chapter of your relationship. You may choose to bury your ring in a location that holds significance for you and your spouse or in a place where you both shared memories.

Keep it in the family

Losing a spouse is one of the most difficult experiences one can go through. The grief and pain can be overwhelming, and the process of healing takes time. During this challenging period, you may be faced with the question of what to do with your wedding ring. Keeping it in the family is one option that allows you to honour your spouse's memory and pass on a sentimental heirloom. Here are some suggestions on how to do this:

Pass It Down as a Family Heirloom

Passing on your wedding ring to your children or grandchildren is a meaningful way to keep it in the family. It symbolises the continuous cycle of love and allows your descendants to carry on the tradition. You can give it as a graduation or birthday gift, or for any other special occasion. Alternatively, you could pass it down as a wedding gift, allowing your child or grandchild to use it as their own wedding ring, thus continuing the legacy of love.

Display It in a Memorial

Creating a memorial display for your deceased spouse is another option to consider. You can purchase or make your own shadow box display, incorporating your wedding ring along with photos and other mementos of your loved one. Place the display in a special spot in your home, where you can reflect on the memories whenever you wish. Alternatively, you can store the ring in a jewellery box engraved with your spouse's initials, keeping it safe until you decide to pass it on.

Incorporate It into Their Headstone

If you wish to physically incorporate your wedding ring into your spouse's memorial, you can consider setting it into their headstone. This unique and creative option serves as a lasting tribute to your enduring love. However, this option may require additional funeral planning and expenses, so it is worth discussing with your spouse beforehand if possible.

Redesign and Wear It

If you still want to wear your wedding ring but would prefer it to look different, you can have it redesigned by a jeweller. You might add or remove certain elements, creating a new piece of jewellery that accompanies you into the next chapter of your life. This option allows you to carry a piece of your spouse with you wherever you go.

Sew It Onto Clothing

Another way to keep your wedding ring close is to sew it onto a special outfit. Choose a garment that holds sentimental value, such as a dress your spouse loved seeing you in, and securely sew the ring inside. This ensures the ring is always with you during important occasions. You could also sew it into the wedding attire of one of your children for their special day, allowing them to have a piece of their deceased parent with them.

The decision of what to do with your wedding ring after the death of your spouse is deeply personal, and there is no right or wrong answer. Take the time you need to grieve and reflect, and know that you can always change your mind if your preferences evolve over time.

Frequently asked questions