By now I’m sure we have all seen the dazzling ring Travis Kelce has presented to Taylor Swift as the pair announced their engagement this week.

The ring is estimated to be worth up to £1 million, but who does it really belong to?

The giving of an engagement ring very rarely results in the immediate question of “what happens to this ring if we separate?” but sometimes things do not always go to plan. In the UK, the average cost of an engagement ring so far in 2025 is £2,158, making it quite a significant asset to consider in a separation.

Engagement ring ownership under UK Law

In England and Wales, the law around the ownership of an engagement ring is quite clear. The Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1970 Section 3(2) states that an engagement ring shall be presumed an absolute gift.

However, this presumption can be invalidated by proving the ring was given on the condition that it would be returned if the marriage does not take place. Although proving this may be quite difficult.

Pre-nuptial Agreements and Cohabitation Agreements

One way to make this clear could be through a pre-nuptial agreement which although not automatically enforceable can help to show intention, or if you are planning a long engagement, possibly a cohabitation agreement.

This may be particularly important to consider if the ring is a family heirloom, for example. Family heirlooms are more likely to hold greater sentimental value to the giver and their family, and it therefore may be presumed that this would be returned in the unfortunate event of the relationship ending. However, there is absolutely no obligation for the recipient to return it. Having clear conversations regarding this may assist further down the line.

High-value engagement rings in divorce settlements

The law is the same in this respect regardless of whether the wedding goes ahead or not. Even in case of divorce, the general rule still applies that an engagement ring is an absolute gift. The only difference here being in relation to the obligation within financial proceedings on divorce to disclose all personal belongings with a value over £500. If the engagement ring is valued over £500 it should be noted on a parties’ Form E.

While your engagement ring may not be worth quite as much as Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s, the legal principles remain the same. Whether your ring cost £2,158 – the average in the UK in 2025 , or significantly more, it is still an asset with both emotional and financial weight.

Understanding the law around engagement ring ownership can help couples prepare for the future, however unlikely a separation might feel at the time of engagement.

For further advice please do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of Geldards’ Family Team who are happy to help.