Engagement ring for sale. Could there be a bleaker quadruplet quote? Following the news that Meghan Markle (or should we now say the Duchess of Sussex, Countess of Dumbarton or Baroness Kilkeel?) posted her engagement ring back to her ex, F.Hinds have asked the great British public, whether spurned or newly itemised, on what they decided to do with their unwanted engagement rings.
Whether you want to call time on the timely reminder of a failed romance, or simply want some pocket money, here are 6 IDEAL tips on what to do with your unwanted engagement ring.
GIVE IT BACK
Follow in the shoes of Meghan’s grace and class (or should that read cold heartedness? we’re not so sure) and simply return the ring to sender. It’s either going to be viewed as an act of common decency to give it back or it’s going to feel really vengeful, and lift a weight from your shoulders. Either way, it’s a royally approved method. Result!
THROW IT AWAY
Symbolic, sure, but sometimes we need that sense of closure that such moments grant. Did you go through a messy divorce? Then a cinematic throwing it into an ocean could be the answer. While we think there’s probably enough waste in the ocean already, it’s certainly a dramatic way to rid yourself of the unwanted ring. In the survey,15% of people said they would destroy their unwanted engagement ring, so you’re certainly not alone if you choose the dramatic conclusion. Or, be a good citizen and recycle. It’s up to you.
KEEP & CHANGE IT
Consider keeping your engagement ring as a memento, even if it’s one which brings memories sometimes tough to confront. Indeed, 36% of people surveyed would keep their engagement ring. Even if the marriage didn’t last, the ring still symbolizes a chapter in your life, which at one point must have been a happy one, and there’s nothing wrong with being sentimental from time to time. While you probably won’t wear it on your finger again, a repurposing into an entirely new piece of jewellery may give it – and yours – new life and meaning.
SELL IT
At the time of F.Hinds’ study, a whopping 5885 used engagement rings were for sale on eBay. Indeed, the research revealed that 42% of brutal Brits wouldn’t hesitate to put their ring up for sale online following a separation or divorce. And really, who can blame them?
USE IT AGAIN
The study revealed that 7% of thrifty fiancés in the UK admit that they would re-use the ring. If your new partner has no problem with using the piece again, we say why not? Alternatively, you could simply not divulge the piece’s history and hope for the best. More seriously, you could consider resetting the stone to give it a new personality. However, bear in mind that this ring was from a relationship that didn’t work out – if you’re the superstitious type this may not not be a good idea for you.
DONATE IT
Instead of letting your unwanted engagement ring languish at the bottom of your jewellery box, why not donate your ring to a charity of your choice? A simple act of generosity and one which will give you the closure you need, too.
