It's an issue that most women dread, but disliking your engagement ring is a common problem, so here's how to deal with it
Many women wait years for it... the moment when they become a wife-to-be. Yet what if it doesn't live up to expectations due to the simple fact that the ring you've been longing for is a complete and utter disappointment?
If this is the case, spare a thought for your partner who has probably been stressed out trying to find a ring that they think you'll like. Smile sweetly, accept the proposal (hopefully) and just enjoy the sheer joy of becoming newly engaged, then think about the ways you can get your hands on a ring you will love for the long-term.
1. Talk
Firstly, give it a few days after the engagement to see if the ring grows on you. If it doesn't, don't avoid the issue; have an honest and open conversation with your partner about the ring and your preferences.
Delicately explain that it's not quite to your taste and as you'll be wearing it for years to come, you would want something that you absolutely love. You know your partner best so you'll know how to broach the subject, but just remember to do everything in your power to not upset them; a gushing apology and plenty of praise for their efforts usually goes down well.
2. Return or exchange it
Once the discussion has been had, now it's time to think about what you can do about the problem. If it's not a custom-made ring and your decision is made soon after the purchase (typically 30 days), then there is a better chance that you will be covered by the jeweller's returns and exchange policy.
Check your partner has retained the receipt or, failing that, has a bank statement to hand as well as the original packaging, and visit the jewellers together to talk it through with the team and choose a ring that both of you can have input on.
3. Modify it
Custom-made rings can usually be modified, provided the requested changes aren't too drastic. Customisation can prove expensive so think long and hard about the modifications you want made. This can also be undertaken if you fall out of love with your ring over an extended period of time.
From changing the mount to re-setting stones and adding more stones, there are various ways you can put your personal stamp on the ring without losing the sentiment behind the ring your partner originally chose.
4. Choose one you want
If your partner has given you their blessing to find a completely new ring to your specification, then the problem can be solved in an instant. Similarly, if your partner has given you the gift of a family heirloom but you're not keen on the ring, buying new will be the most obvious solution.
Family heirlooms are a trickier situation to deal with because of the sentimentality attached. Yet, having been passed down the generations, the ring will carry a greater risk of looking old-fashioned and also comes with a heightened responsibility to protect and preserve it. If you really can't bring yourself to love it, then plan a shopping trip to find something you really want.
