In a bold and unconventional move, Emily Ratajkowski has redefined the concept of jewelry with her latest creation: ‘divorce rings.’ Following her divorce from Sebastian Bear-McClard in 2022, with whom she shares a son named Sylvester, Ratajkowski has repurposed her former engagement ring into two distinct ring styles, marking a symbolic evolution in her personal journey. The model took to Instagram earlier today to unveil the innovative pieces.
In an exclusive interview with Vogue, Ratajkowski shared her inspiration behind the transformation, citing Stephanie Danler’s essay “The Unravelers” in The Paris Review as a pivotal influence. The essay recounts Danler’s grandmother’s snake ring, which incorporates stones from her various marriages. Captivated by the idea of a ring symbolizing the multifaceted experiences of a woman’s life, Ratajkowski approached her jeweler friend Alison Chemla, the creative mind behind fine-jewelry brand Alison Lou, to collaborate on her vision.
Together, Ratajkowski and Chemla embarked on the journey of reinventing the engagement ring into two complementary pieces, each preserving the original stones—an exquisite pear-shaped diamond and a princess-cut diamond—alongside platinum and 18-karat yellow gold settings. The duo meticulously crafted the rings, drawing inspiration from Rihanna’s iconic diamond pinky-toe ring for the silhouette and infusing the design with a blend of freshness and timelessness.
Reflecting on the transformative process, Ratajkowski expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, revealing that the new rings have become inseparable companions, worn even during sleep. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the rings carry profound significance for Ratajkowski, symbolizing empowerment and resilience amidst life’s transitions. For her, the rings serve as a tangible reminder of reclaiming agency and finding happiness on her terms.
As Ratajkowski embraces the future with renewed confidence and a sense of inner peace, the ‘divorce rings’ stand as a testament to her unwavering spirit and resilience, embodying the notion that self-fulfillment transcends conventional norms and expectations.