The things we own hold our energy as well as the stories and meaning we place on them. A ring could have no monetary value, yet it may mean the world to someone because of its story.

Knowing the story behind a memento, family heirloom, piece of jewelry can bring fuller meaning and joy to the person who may eventually receive it. 

This is what stories are made of.

When my husband decided to purchase my engagement ring, his friend suggested going to the Diamond District in New York City. With cash tucked in his pockets, socks, and jacket, Luke went on a quest to find a marquise-shaped diamond. That was all the information he received from me. 

He purchased a diamond set in a simple band of gold with a small twist. When he proposed on October 10, 1990, he said I could change the setting. I said, “Yes!” to his proposal but kept the band. I loved the simplicity of it and the diamond popped.

In the beginning of our marriage, we played softball for the company I worked for. My ring didn’t fit under my glove. One day, I quickly placed it in the ashtray of my red Acura and flipped it closed. When I retrieved my ring, the edge of the diamond had chipped! Luckily, we had it insured. I was given a new diamond but the band remained the same.

Simple and steadfast.

A couple years ago, I added a gold band to balance my wedding ring. The diamond has stood the test of 33 years of marriage, even when the worn band had to be replaced. 

Perhaps this ring will be passed on to my son’s wife, daughter or daughter-in-law. Whoever he chooses. It carries my energy and connection to the person wearing it. I hope they get a chuckle out of the mission to find a diamond and the crack from a little pressure. 

It takes more than that to shake our marriage. I hope their experiences add to the story. 

It doesn’t have to be complicated but if you’d like to pass on a memento or piece of jewelry, consider writing a story of the piece. It not only personalizes the gift but adds meaning. 

Here are some prompts to get you started.