As Wedding Know How editors, we write about things that we love and we think you'll like too. We have affiliate partnerships and sponsorship and may generate some revenue from these at no cost to you.
When a marriage ends, most people want to have something that symbolizes a new beginning in their lives, or mark some kind of closure. Divorce rings are relatively new, but they’re a great choice for those who miss wearing a ring on their finger, especially if they’ve been married for many years.
While marking the end of a significant chapter in life might not be easy, divorce rings are a way of symbolizing the start of a new chapter. Here’s everything you need to know about divorce rings and how they can give you inspiration as you move on to new beginnings.
What Is a Divorce Ring and What Does It Symbolize?
One of the latest and unusual jewelry trends, divorce rings are helping people to move forward in the aftermath of divorce. It’s simply a piece of jewelry you can buy yourself to mark the end of the marriage and the beginning of a new chapter in life. In a way, these rings symbolize closure.
Some divorce rings are similar to traditional rings, while others feature designs that indicate a recent divorce. There are also divorce rings that convey more of a hopeful message. For some, wearing them is also a way to reclaim their personal style and individuality following the end of their marriage.
Some people choose to repurpose their engagement ring and wedding band into divorce rings. There are many jewelry shops, retailers and artists that make rings for divorce and can even create new designs using old rings.
However, divorce rings shouldn’t be something that will remind you of your ex-husband or wife, but a ring that will celebrate your courage, strength and independence. After all, your greatest struggles become your greatest strengths and divorce rings symbolize just that.
On Which Finger Should You Wear a Divorce Ring?
Divorce rings are a relatively new concept, so there are no rules to follow when it comes to the right way of wearing them. You can wear one on any finger you like as long as you’re both physically and emotionally comfortable with it.
A divorce ring can be worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, replacing those engagement and wedding rings. It’s the common choice of those who feel the loss of their wedding bands, as well as those who want to remind themselves of a new beginning following the end of their marriage.
Divorce rings are sometimes worn on the middle finger, so that they wouldn’t be mistaken for wedding rings. They’re a great way to show the world that you’re not engaged or married. The middle finger might not be as symbolic as the ring finger, but it can also be great for channeling your inner power, balance and stability.
Some people prefer to wear their divorce ring on the finger of their right hand. By keeping the left hand free, they show the world that they’re single, independent and available.
Divorce Ring Styles and Inspirations
It’s important to choose a divorce ring design that will uplift your spirits, leaving you feeling positive about your future—not something that will remind you of the loss. Here are some of the most popular ring designs available on the market:
Symbolic Rings
Arrow Diamond Ring by Eloise Fine Jewelry. See it here.
Divorce rings aren’t just a formal statement about your divorce—but also a personal symbol and a way to celebrate yourself. Opt for a symbol that reveals your inner courage and shows the world that you’re strong and independent. For example, arrows can show your bravery, independence and the strength to move forward.
Puzzle Rings
Puzzle Ring by Arcanum Designs. See it here.
Puzzle rings usually symbolize overcoming challenges in life, making them an ideal ring for divorcees. It simply shows that you’re fitting all the pieces of your new life together. Some even use these three-band rings to represent their life’s stories from the past, the present and the future.
Heart Rings
Gem Heart Ring by Amava Toronto. See it here.
The heart design in divorce rings can mean different things, but it’s generally a reminder to love yourself. You can opt for a design with multiple hearts to remind you of your children (if you have any), and loved ones that make your life worthwhile.
Instead of a broken heart design, opt for a filled-heart design, with diamonds bursting though the broken part of the heart. It looks more positive, implying that you’re conquering heartbreak, healing and moving on.
Broken Rings
Natural Diamond Claw Ring by Sarah Elise Jewelry. See it here.
For minimalists, divorce rings with a gap at the center (also called ‘broken rings’) can represent the end of their marriage. It’s one of the designs that symbolize the day you said, “I don’t.” While you can go for a simple gold band, diamonds can give a more optimistic feel to your ring.
Motivational Rings
Engraved Ring by Hearts or Spades. See it here.
If you want something straightforward, choose a divorce ring with motivational phrases, quotes, or song lyrics that can inspire you. Here are some common phrases used for personalized divorce rings:
- ‘Time to rise’
- ‘Everything is possible’
- ‘Be brave’
- ‘Choose joy’
- ‘This too shall pass’
- ‘I am enough’
- ‘She believed she could, so she did’
- ‘I can, I will’
- ‘Courage’
- ‘Let it go’
- ‘She’s just a girl, and she’s on fire’
What to Do with the Wedding Ring after Divorce?
Most people choose to give their wedding rings a ceremonial goodbye by throwing them off a cliff or burying them in the ground. However, you might want to think twice about doing something like this, especially if the ring is very valuable. While it all depends on your preference, here are some practical ideas for what to do with your wedding ring after divorce:
Turn them into a divorce ring.
Divorce rings are usually designed with the same valuable materials used for engagement and wedding rings. Instead of buying a new piece of jewelry, take your wedding or engagement ring (or both) to a jeweler and have them redesigned into a divorce ring. This way, the old becomes the new without any separation on your part.
Sell them for a new piece of jewelry.
Experts say that when you sell your old rings, you’ll likely get only the 15% of their value, making it the least appealing option. However, it can be one of the best choices if you don’t want to leave anything behind that would remind you of your previous marriage.
By selling your engagement and wedding rings, you can buy another piece of jewelry that you love. While it can be a divorce ring, it shouldn’t be focused on your tale of love and loss—but a new beginning, positivity and empowerment.
Repurpose your jewelry pieces.
If you’re not into the idea of turning your wedding and engagement rings into a divorce ring, you might want to consider turning them into a different piece of jewelry instead like a new pair of earrings, bracelet, necklace, anklet or any other jewelry piece you’d prefer. This way, you’ll have a piece of jewelry, most likely with beautiful gemstones but with a different look and feel, giving you something beautiful to flaunt.
Wrapping Up
Divorce rings are more than just a jewelry trend—they mark the end of marriage and the start of a new life. It’s never too late to start building a better future and it’s inspiring to have something that will remind you of your strength and courage. Nowadays, divorce rings are becoming increasingly popular as more divorcees tend to look for something to turn to for closure.
