Gold and platinum diamond rings are a common source of arguments among separated couples, it is claimed.
Joanna Grossman, a law professor for Hofstra University, said who should keep engagement bands is a topic that could lead to court, reports the New York Times.
The expert states to the newspaper "a lot of people dispute" the ownership of gold diamond rings after a break-up, despite the expense of pursuing a court case usually out-weighing the cost of a ring.
She adds: "People can spend an exorbitant amount of money on rings they cannot afford and then it is not uncommon for them to break up. But the rings are not usually worth enough to offset the cost of litigation."
Meanwhile, Raoul Felder, a lawyer who has experienced such cases, tells the publication he "can't understand how a man is not embarrassed to ask for a ring back".
Last month, a study by Bloom and Co claimed 25 per cent of Brits would pass on an ex-partner's jewellery to their new beau.