Los Angeles Family Lawyer Blog

Who gets the engagement/wedding rings can be a major issue in a divorce also know as marriage dissolution in California. 'The answer: It depends. Each case must be reviewed in detail as to when and how the ring(s) were given, the cost of the rings and the normal station in life of the parties.
For instance, in one case brought before the California Court of Appeal, the appeal court overturned the ruling of the trial court -- see In re the Marriage of Buff and James Mark Steinberger. During the marriage, Mr. Steinburger purchased a diamond ring. The trial court found that the diamond ring to be the separate property of the wife by way of gift from the husband to the wife. However, rather than looking at the ring as a gift, the Court of Appeal looked at the "value placed on the item by the parties" as to whether of a "substantial" value or "insubstantial gift" taking into account the circumstances of the marriage. The Court of Appeal found the ring of substantial value and thus community property in which both parties shared 1/2 interest at the time of divorce.
For interpretation of the California statutes and the fine line interpretations, you must consult with a family law attorney such as Frazee/Laron in Pasadena, California.
--RoseAnn Frazee