DEAR ABBY: I'm having a bit of a dilemma. About two years ago, I proposed to my girlfriend, "Gigi," and she excitedly said yes. Eventually, Gigi and I no longer saw eye-to-eye. She returned the ring, and we both went our separate ways.
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About a year ago, I met a lady I'll call Angel. Her co-worker had tried to arrange it for months. When we finally met, sparks flew! I still get excited thinking about that first meeting. Anyway, Angel and I have been dating long enough that I think she is definitely "The One." I can see myself settling down with her.
Would it be appropriate to get the stones removed from the engagement ring I got back from Gigi and have them placed in another setting for Angel? The large diamond cost me almost $3,000 and, for me, that's expensive. -- READY TO CUT THE CAKE IN LOUISIANA
DEAR READY: There's an old saying: If you want to make rabbit stew, first catch the rabbit. Do nothing with the ring that was returned until you have discussed the matter with Angel. If Angel accepts your proposal, explain the situation and ask your fiancee what she'd prefer. But don't be surprised if she doesn't want the stone because it symbolizes a failed romance.
Your letter reminds me of an old joke my mother told me years ago. Two women were sitting next to each other at the beauty shop when one noticed that the other was wearing a large diamond ring. "Why, Mrs. Harold!" she exclaimed. "What a gorgeous diamond. Wherever did you get it?"
Her companion held out her hand and said: "Why thank you. My husband gave it to me. It's the famous Harold diamond. It has a curse on it."
"A curse?" the woman asked. "What kind of curse?"
Sighed her friend, "The curse is Harold."