Jennifer Lopez has officially moved to end her marriage with Ben Affleck, but that doesn’t mean she’s ready to give up her massive engagement ring.
After connecting for a second time in 2021, Affleck proposed to J. Lo with a rare 8.5-carat radiant-cut green diamond. The gem is nestled between two accent diamonds on a platinum band. Experts have estimated that Affleck paid between $5 million and $10 million for the ring. However, after filing for divorce days ago, sources claim she is not returning the pricey piece of jewelry.
“It was a gift. Just because the relationship didn’t work out doesn’t mean she has to give it back. Jennifer has zero guilt about keeping it, and clearly, Ben doesn’t mind — he’s done this twice already! It’s not like he didn’t know what he was getting into!” an alleged friend of Lopez told InTouch Weekly.
Back in 2002, Affleck proposed with a pink diamond ring that reportedly cost over $2 million. Lopez held onto the ring after they split in 2004, but she returned it to Harry Winston the following year, who then sold it. While she eventually surrendered the first ring, should she let go of the second one? Well, according to the law, it’s not required.
According to FindLaw, most courts in the U.S. “classify engagement rings as a conditional gift.” A conditional gift is subject to a specific future circumstance, in this case, a wedding. The person giving the engagement is entitled to a refund if the ceremony doesn’t occur. However, since J. Lo and Affleck did make it down the aisle, Affleck is likely no longer able to claim it. While keeping the ring in most states is acceptable, some would argue that it’s inappropriate if you’re trying to move on.
Having an expensive bond with your ex could make it difficult to heal for good. It may also be difficult for future partners to accept. Mental health writer Crystal Raypole suggests that if you must keep such a gift, keep it out of plain sight.
“It can help to pack up significant reminders of the relationship, including gifts, photographs, or things you bought together. You don’t have to throw these things away. Just set the box aside where you won’t see it all the time,” she explained in a piece for Healthline.
Whether or not you choose to keep the ring is likely a personal decision that won’t be enforced under the law. Still, make the best decision for your emotional health.
