Kim Kardashian recently disclosed that she had to give back her engagement ring to Kris Humphries after their divorce, even though she claimed to have funded most of it. The reality star revealed on an episode of The Kardashians that relinquishing the 18-carat emerald-cut diamond ring was part of their 2013 divorce settlement. Humphries later auctioned the ring for £578,000, confirming that it was legally his property post their marriage dissolution.
This revelation by Kim has reignited the ongoing discussion surrounding whether women should return their engagement rings in the event of a relationship ending. The debate encompasses legal, ethical, and emotional perspectives. Legally, engagement rings are often considered conditional gifts, given with the expectation of marriage. Courts in various jurisdictions, including some U.S. states, have mandated that the ring be returned in case of a canceled wedding.
However, laws differ based on location and circumstances. Certain states operate under a no-fault system, where the reason for the breakup does not impact the return of the ring, while others consider responsibility for terminating the engagement. In the UK, the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1970 states that an engagement ring is an absolute gift unless an explicit agreement indicates its return if the marriage does not materialize.
Nevertheless, if the ring is a family heirloom, courts may order its return to the giver, especially if it was intended for generational passing. Apart from legal considerations, personal beliefs play a significant role in individuals’ perspectives on this matter. There is a widespread sentiment that returning the ring is the morally right action to take, as seen in discussions on platforms like Reddit.
Opinions vary, with some asserting that engagement rings are conditional gifts tied to marriage, thus warranting return if the wedding does not occur. Conversely, others argue that engagement rings are unconditional gifts and should not be demanded back unless they are family heirlooms. Factors such as the nature of the breakup can also influence views on ring returns.
Relationship expert Hope Flynn emphasizes that the decision to return an engagement ring post-breakup or divorce is deeply personal and context-dependent. Flynn suggests that while some may view the ring as a gift to keep or sell, others may feel compelled to return it, especially if the wedding did not happen. Regarding family heirlooms, she advocates for returning them out of respect for sentimental value.
In conclusion, the decision to return an engagement ring is subjective and varies based on individual circumstances and beliefs. Flynn underscores the importance of considering personal values and the specific situation when making this choice.