Did you know that it’s not expected Open in new window that you keep the same engagement ring or wedding band throughout your entire marriage? On the contrary, it’s actually a widely accepted custom for couples to upgrade engagement rings after numerous years of marital bliss.
Understandably, styles evolve, budgets change and personal tastes shift over time, so what you initially picked for an engagement ring may not be what you want a decade or more later. For these reasons, many couples choose to upgrade engagement ring settings or center stones. After all, you deserve to have a diamond that you love, especially when you wear it every day.
Whether you are renewing your vows, celebrating a milestone anniversary, or just because, now is the perfect time to upgrade your diamond ring for a higher quality stone, a larger carat size or a more brilliant cut. Just as your original engagement ring represented your union’s first stage, your upgraded wedding ring can reflect your marriage in the years to come.
When Do You Upgrade Your Wedding Ring?
The decision of exactly when to upgrade your ring is totally up to you and your spouse. There’s no exact wedding ring upgrade etiquette, but major life events like big birthdays and milestone anniversaries Open in new window present the perfect opportunity to indulge in a new piece of bling. For example, the 10th anniversary Open in new window is an immensely popular time for couples to upgrade their wedding rings. Ultimately though, the decision is yours whether you choose to upgrade after one year of marriage or 50 years of marriage Open in new window.
Wedding Ring Upgrade Ideas
From a simple update to a complete redesign, there are endless ways to upgrade your wedding rings. Whether you’re thinking about changing everything or just one detail, here are some of the top wedding ring upgrade ideas to get you started.
One of the most popular ways to upgrade an engagement ring is by upgrading the center diamond. Whether you want the stone bigger or better quality, upgrading it can make a big difference in your ring’s overall appearance.

If you want to keep your original center stone for sentimental reasons but still want to transform its look, try adding diamonds to a ring. Do this by placing accent stones on either side of the center diamond. Alternatively, a halo setting can make your center stone appear larger while creating more sparkle.

If you’re looking to mix things up, add a pop of color to your ring with sapphires Open in new window, rubies Open in new window or colored diamonds Open in new window. You can add meaningful significance with birthstone Open in new window colors, whether they are your own or those of your children. Keep in mind that not every gemstone is durable enough to be worn every day.

Are you tired of your original metal choice or wish you had opted for a diamond band? Well, now is your chance! Yellow gold is a classic choice. Platinum Open in new window is a durable alternative that looks great and is ideal for those with metal sensitivities or allergies Open in new window.

This might be the most obvious way to upgrade, but now is your chance to get the ring you’ve always wanted! Choose a different setting, shape or a larger diamond. The options are endless when you start from scratch, so why not design the ring Open in new window of your dreams!
What to Do with Your Old Engagement Ring After an Upgrade
What you choose to do with your original engagement ring is totally up to you. One option is to trade your engagement ring in, including the diamond and the setting, and get credit towards your new, upgraded diamond purchase at Borsheims.
However, if you aren’t ready to part with your original ring for sentimental reasons, there are ways to preserve it. One option is to keep it and wear it on your right hand or pass it down to your children. You might prefer to retain some elements of your engagement ring, such as the setting, and just upgrade the diamond. You could also have the original ring’s metal melted down or use its gems as side stones in your new ring. Lastly, you could even transform your old ring into a new piece of jewelry, like a classic diamond pendant necklace that you could wear every day.
If you want to upgrade your diamond but aren’t ready to part with your existing stone, our team of professionals would be happy to assist you in repurposing your original stone into a remarkable statement piece that you’ll love. Learn more about all of our jewelry services Open in new window.
From fabulous preset diamond rings Open in new window to spectacular custom pieces designed just for you, Borsheims is here to help you find the diamond of your dreams. Learn more about our diamond trade-in policy Open in new window or call 1-800-642-4438 to speak with one of our diamond experts.