What To Do With Your Wedding Ring After The Death Of A Spouse (2024)

This page may contain affiliate links. If you choose to interact with or purchase from another business, we may receive payment. Learn more.

Should a widow’s ring stay on after their spouse passes away? Do widows wear the ring on their ring finger or on a different finger? This article covers the meaning of widows and widowers keeping their rings on and other ideas to pursue if keeping the ring on isn’t the preferred option.

Do widows and widowers still wear their wedding rings?

The decision to continue wearing a wedding ring after the death of a spouse is highly personal and varies from person to person. There is no strict rule, and individuals may choose to approach this matter based on their own feelings, cultural norms, and the significance they attach to the ring.

For some, wearing the wedding ring can be a way to honor and maintain a connection with the memory of their late spouse. It serves as a symbol of the love and commitment shared throughout the marriage. It may also signal to others that they are in mourning or that they still hold their spouse's memory close to their heart.

Others may find that removing the ring helps them move forward in the grieving process and signals a shift in their relationship status. They may choose to repurpose the ring or store it as a cherished keepsake.

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer, and individuals should make the decision that feels most comfortable and meaningful to them. It's essential to be compassionate and understanding of others' choices in this regard, recognizing that everyone processes grief differently.

Why do widows still wear their wedding rings?

Widows and widowers frequently choose to continue wearing their wedding rings for various personal and emotional reasons. The decision is often rooted in the symbolism attached to the ring, representing a lasting connection to the love and commitment shared with their late spouse. The wedding ring becomes more than a piece of jewelry; it’s a tangible link to the memories and experiences built over a lifetime together.

For many widows, the ring serves as a comforting reminder of the enduring bond they had with their partner. The emotional significance of the ring can provide solace during the grieving process, acting as a constant presence that brings a sense of continuity and connection to the past. It becomes a way to honor the memory of the deceased spouse and keep their spirit alive in the present.

Ultimately, the decision to keep wearing a wedding ring after the loss of a spouse is a personal one, reflecting the complex interplay of emotions, traditions, and individual coping mechanisms. It is a way for widows to navigate their grief journey and find a source of comfort and connection in the midst of profound loss.

Ideas for repurposing rings for widows

Other widows and widowers choose not to continue wearing their rings. Not sure what to do with yours? Here are 9 ideas for how to repurpose a wedding ring after a death:

1. Transform it into a custom pendant or necklace: Take the stones or metal from the wedding ring and have them crafted into a custom pendant or necklace. This way, you can wear a piece of your loved one close to your heart, creating a unique and cherished keepsake.

2. Incorporate the stones into a new piece of jewelry: If the wedding ring has gemstones, consider incorporating them into a new piece of jewelry. This could include earrings, a brooch, or even a new ring design that holds sentimental value.

3. Turn it into a charm for a bracelet: Convert the wedding ring into a charm for a bracelet. This allows you to carry a small, symbolic piece of the ring with you wherever you go, providing a subtle and personal way to remember your loved one.

4. Design a meaningful keychain: Repurpose the wedding ring into a keychain, adding elements that reflect your loved one's personality or interests. Every time you use your keys, you'll have a tangible reminder of the special memories you shared.

5. Repurpose the metal for a new ring: If the metal is still in good condition, repurpose it to create a new ring or another accessory. You can redesign the ring to fit your style or use the metal to craft a different piece of jewelry, giving it a new purpose. An example of these would be bracelets, new rings, or even using a widow’s wedding ring for a necklace.

6. Use the ring to create a personalized piece of artwork: Explore artistic options by incorporating the wedding ring into a piece of artwork or sculpture. This could be a unique and creative way to honor your loved one's memory while adding a special touch to your living space.

7. Donate it to a charity or organization: Consider donating the wedding ring to a charity or organization that supports a cause your loved one was passionate about. This act of kindness can turn a symbol of love into a meaningful contribution to a worthy cause.

8. Keep it as a family heirloom: Preserve the wedding ring as a family heirloom to pass down through generations. This ensures that the sentimental value and memories associated with the ring continue to be cherished by your family in the years to come.

9. Craft a special memorial item: Explore crafting options to transform the wedding ring into a special memorial item, such as a candle holder, keepsake box, or even a garden ornament. This way, you can create a tangible tribute that honors your loved one's memory in a unique and personal way.

A widow’s rings are just one way to remember a beloved spouse who has passed away. There are many other ways to memorialize a loved one, including setting up a memorial website in their memory and honor. Ever Loved offers free memorial websites that include a space for an obituary, event information ,fundraising, photos, condolences, and more.

Create a memorial website