Absolutely no one I know has gone into a marriage thinking or anticipating that it won’t last forever. We tie the knot for the love of the future that we can have together, “for all the days of our life”… But the reality is, nearly all of us know someone who has gone through a separation or divorce at some stage for whatever reason.

Among the many assets and custodial issues to sort through, quite often at the end of it all there is a looming question of what to do with your engagement and wedding rings (not to mention any other jewellery that came out of your relationship).

4. Toss them in the ocean…

Ah, how about “no”? From what we’ve heard, come settlement time, both parties aren’t necessarily happy with the result and there’s every chance one or both of you have been left financially short. There is also every chance your rings are worth more than the second hand car or the 3 piece lounge suite which was a wedding gift that you fought over. So, think twice before throwing them in the ocean or any other means of “disposal”.

3. Burn them…

Ok this is a little more reasonable than throwing them in the ocean but we wouldn’t recommend doing it yourself. Most jewellers will be happy to melt down your jewellery into stock gauge so, if anything, you have raw metal and diamonds or precious gemstones you can sell. But it raises a question as to whether you’d get more bang for your buck by doing this or selling it as is… which brings me to my next point.

2. Sell it…

Before considering this option, we firstly highly recommend getting your rings valued so you have a clear idea on what they are worth before selling. Your local jeweller can give you a rough estimate as to what they might be valued at, but to ensure you get the most out of it, a formal valuation from a registered valuer is your best option.

As far as actually selling it, the options here are endless. Some jewellers will be happy to sell your jewellery on consignment with commission so long as it is in great condition and meets their quality standards. Selling them online via Marketplace or Gumtree is an option too. You could go to a pawn broker, however you are much less likely to get the highest figure you’re looking for. If your rings are made by a high end designer or are worth quite a bit of money, you could also try approaching auction houses.

1. Turn them into something new…

Engagement rings and wedding bands come loaded with memories and dreams that symbolise your time together and if you’ve gone through a divorce, that can bring about all sorts of raw emotions. If you can’t bring yourself to do any of the other above options, rather than let them sit at the back of your jewellery box to never see the light of day again, we suggest getting them made into something that reflects the new chapter in your life. Most bespoke jewellers and jewellery workshops are happy to redesign something using your old gold and diamonds from your old symbols of love and create them into something new. If anything, it’s a very cost effective option if you have always wanted a special piece of jewellery because you’re effectively only paying for the labour costs in addition to any other additions you want to include (such as a few extra diamonds)!

When all is said and done, the jewellery from your relationship can hold all sort of memories, emotions and history. Yes, you could throw them away or torch them like they never even existed, or you could give a new life to the rings of the past by bringing your unwanted jewellery into Ryley Jewellery Creations for a complimentary quote. You can book an appointment here.

The Top 4 Things to do with your Engagement and Wedding Rings if your Marriage Breaks Up.