
The death of a spouse can be devastating, and it can be challenging to figure out what to do with your wedding ring after their passing. Some widows and widowers may choose to keep wearing their wedding ring, while others may find it too painful and decide to remove it. For those who decide to continue wearing their wedding ring, it can be a source of comfort and a way to keep their spouse's memory close. Some people may choose to move the ring to their right hand, which is often seen as a sign of being a widow or widower, while others may opt to wear it on a necklace to keep it close to their heart. There are also options to redesign or resize the ring, or to incorporate it into a memorial diamond. Ultimately, the decision of what to do with a wedding ring after the death of a spouse is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Continue wearing the wedding ring | For remembrance, comfort, and security |
| Move the wedding ring to the right hand | To indicate widowed status, to symbolise moving forward |
| Remove the wedding ring | To avoid the pain of reminders of the spouse's death |
| Wear the wedding ring on a necklace | To still have and wear the ring while expressing widowed status |
| Upgrade or redesign the wedding ring | To create something uniquely yours that carries meaning into the next chapter of life |
| Store the wedding ring | In a ring box, shadow box, bank safety deposit box, or safe |
| Pass down the wedding ring | To children or other immediate family members as a family heirloom |
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What You'll Learn

Moving the wedding ring to the right hand
Losing a spouse is a heartbreaking experience, and the grieving process is different for everyone. Some widows and widowers decide to continue wearing their wedding rings as a way to keep their spouse close and honour the life and love they shared. For others, wearing their wedding ring after the passing of their loved one is too painful, and they may choose to remove it.
Some people choose to leave the wedding ring on their right hand indefinitely, while others may decide to remove it after a while or when they feel ready to take that step. There is no right or wrong decision, and individuals should do whatever brings them comfort and peace during the grieving process.
In addition to moving the wedding ring to the right hand, there are other ways widows and widowers can choose to honour their spouse and their marriage. Some may choose to wear the wedding ring on a necklace, keeping it close to their heart. Others may pass down the ring to children or other family members as a family heirloom, celebrating the life and legacy of their spouse. Some may also choose to incorporate memorial diamonds, made from the cremated remains of their loved one, into their wedding band, creating a unique and heartfelt representation of their love and memories.
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Wearing the wedding ring on a necklace
Losing a spouse is a difficult and painful experience, and the decision to continue wearing a wedding ring or not is a personal one. Some widows and widowers decide to continue wearing their wedding rings after the loss of their spouses for different reasons. The ring can serve as a reminder of the departed spouse and the memories shared with them. It can also provide comfort during the grieving process and a sense of security when feeling lonely.
For those who choose to stop wearing their wedding ring after the loss of a spouse, there are several alternatives to consider. One option is to wear the wedding ring on a necklace. This allows the ring to lie close to the heart and can be a constant reminder of the love and commitment shared with the departed spouse. Wearing the ring on a necklace can also be a way to keep the memory of the marriage alive while symbolically moving forward.
Some people may choose to put their spouse's wedding ring on a necklace as well, as a representation of the marriage covenant they made to each other. This can be a simple yet meaningful way to keep the memory of their spouse close to their heart. Additionally, wearing the ring on a necklace can be a safe way to keep the ring, especially if one is not ready to part with it completely.
For those who are not comfortable wearing the ring on a necklace, there are other options to consider. One option is to move the wedding ring from the left hand to the right hand. This can be done temporarily or indefinitely and is often seen as a step in letting go of the past. Another option is to pass down the wedding ring to children or other family members as a family heirloom. This allows the ring to be kept in the family and can be a way to celebrate the life of the departed spouse for generations to come.
Ultimately, the decision to wear a wedding ring after the loss of a spouse is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. It is important to do what feels right and what brings comfort during the grieving process.
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Keeping the ring in a safe space
Losing a spouse can be devastating, and deciding what to do with your wedding ring can be a difficult decision. Some people may choose to continue wearing their wedding ring, while others may find it too painful a reminder of their loss. For those who decide to stop wearing their wedding ring, there are several options for keeping it in a safe space.
One option is to place the ring in a ring box or a shadow box. Shadow boxes are enclosed glass display cases that allow you to store your ring along with other memorabilia and sentimental items. You can also have a ring box customised with your loved one's initials or your wedding anniversary date. This option allows you to keep the ring safe and close by while you decide how to celebrate your loved one's life.
Another option is to pass the wedding ring down to children or other family members as a family heirloom. This can be a sentimental way to celebrate your loved one's memory and share their story with future generations.
If you are not ready to part with the ring completely, you may consider wearing it on a necklace chain. This allows you to still have and wear the ring while expressing your marital status as a widow or widower.
Additionally, you can keep your ring in a safe and secure location, such as a bank safety deposit box or a safe in your home. This option provides peace of mind, knowing that the ring is safe and accessible whenever you want it.
It is important to note that there is no right or wrong decision when it comes to what you do with your wedding ring after the loss of your spouse. Grieving is a personal process, and you should choose the option that feels most comfortable and meaningful to you.
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Redesigning the ring
Dealing with the wedding ring of a deceased spouse is a very personal decision, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. While some widows and widowers may find comfort in continuing to wear their wedding rings, others may view them as a painful reminder of their loss. For those who choose to redesign their wedding rings, there are several options to consider:
Redesigning a wedding ring can be a way to honour the past while creating something new to wear into the future. Jeanette Walker Jewellery, for example, offers a service where they reuse the gold and diamonds from original wedding rings to create a new design. This option allows the widow or widower to maintain a connection to their late spouse while also symbolising a new chapter in their life.
Adding a Memorial Diamond
A memorial diamond is a unique and heartfelt way to redesign a wedding ring. These diamonds are made from the cremated remains or hair of a loved one and can be customised in shape, size, and colour. Adding a memorial diamond to a wedding ring creates a beautiful representation of the life and memories shared with the departed spouse. This option allows the widow or widower to keep their loved one close as they journey through life without them.
Incorporating the Ring into Jewellery
Some people may prefer to redesign their wedding ring by incorporating it into a new piece of jewellery. This could involve melting the ring into a pendant or adding the stones to a brooch or necklace. Wearing the wedding ring as a necklace, for example, allows the widow or widower to keep the ring close to their heart, providing a sense of comfort and security.
Passing Down the Ring
For those who no longer wish to wear their wedding ring but want to keep it in the family, passing it down to children or other family members can be a meaningful option. This decision ensures that the ring remains a cherished heirloom and allows for the story of the departed spouse to be shared and celebrated for generations to come.
Ultimately, the decision to redesign a wedding ring after being widowed is a personal one. It is important to take the time to grieve and consider all options before making any permanent changes.
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Passing the ring down to children or other family members
The death of a spouse is a heartbreaking loss, and the wedding ring becomes a weighty reminder of their absence. Some widows and widowers decide to continue wearing their wedding rings as it helps them in their grieving process and reminds them of their departed spouse. Others may choose to move their wedding ring from their left hand to their right hand, signifying that they are moving forward while still holding their spouse dear.
However, wearing a wedding ring may be too painful for some, and they may choose to remove it. In such cases, passing down the wedding ring to children or other family members is a common practice. Wedding rings, engagement rings, and other heirloom rings are often passed down as family heirlooms, continuing the story of one's family history. These rings hold immense sentimental value and are considered significant items that connect generations.
Passing down a wedding ring to children or grandchildren is a way to keep the ring in the family and celebrate the memory of the departed spouse. It allows the story of their remarkable life and the love shared to be shared for decades to come. It is a way to honour the past while also looking towards the future.
When passing down a wedding ring, it is essential to consider the recipient's preferences and style. Vintage rings, with their unique appearance and rich history, may not appeal to everyone. It is also important to communicate your intentions clearly to avoid any misunderstandings or family disputes. Additionally, it is advisable to have the ring inspected and repaired if necessary to ensure it is in good condition for the next wearer.
Deciding what to do with a wedding ring after the loss of a spouse is a deeply personal decision. While some may choose to continue wearing it, others may prefer to pass it down as a way to keep their spouse's memory alive and celebrate their family's legacy. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer, and each person must decide what brings them the most comfort.
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Frequently asked questions
It is a personal choice. Some widows and widowers continue to wear their wedding rings, sometimes moving them to their right hand, while others remove them. Some people choose to wear their ring on a necklace or keep it in a ring box or safe.
Moving your wedding ring to your right hand is often considered the first step in letting go of the past. It can also be a way to symbolise that you are widowed without having to explain your marital status to others. However, some may interpret this as a sign that you are ready to date again.
You could pass your wedding ring down to your children or other family members as a family heirloom. Alternatively, you could incorporate the ring into a new piece of jewellery, such as a necklace, or melt it down and reshape it into a new design.











































