Eisner: Well, it depends on how much you like it. But just make it feel like it has no memories—think of it as a piece you got at a vintage or antique store. But if you really hate them, sell it or melt it down. Or, give it to your granddaughter or something.
Batiste: Burn it. You shouldn’t keep it. Items have a spiritual energy to them. Purge and evolve; catharsis and release.
Is it still common etiquette to return the ring if an engagement is broken off?
Eisner: If you break it off, maybe you go, “Listen, you probably want this back.” If they break it off, you keep it. Are you kidding?
Batiste: There are all types of different scenarios. There’s no one-size-fits-all. Generally, the most graceful thing to do across the board would be to give it back, but in some circumstances, that’s a radical act. But if she has the ring because he’s already proposed to her, it’d be nice if she gave it back, but it’s not necessary.
After a divorce, what should you do with the engagement ring?
Eisner: Give it to your kids if you have kids with them.
Batiste: I don’t know. I don’t think about that one too much.
Can you wear diamonds to the gym, or is that too extravagant?
Eisner: Sometimes, I feel like if you go to the gym and don’t have diamonds on, they’re not gonna let you in—that’s basically how it is here [in Los Angeles] anyway! Especially if you’re sweating and you’re all sloppy. It’s like, at least you’re a rich woman working out.
Batiste: Because I’m a stage performer and I’m also someone who is really considered a fashion plate, I go back and forth. So sometimes you can catch me in places with diamonds on, like the gym or the subway. Other times, it’ll be the complete opposite, and there’s no rhyme or reason to it. Sometimes I’ll have residue from an event the night prior, and I just go with it. The energy will still be on me or the desire to keep the diamonds on, so I’ll just go with it.
Should you sleep in your jewelry?