What is the Islamic ruling on the exchange of gifts between a suitor and his fiancée after the engagement has been broken off, when the suitor is not content with the proposed exchange?

The engagement is merely a promise of marriage, and it is permissible to break it for a need, but it is disliked to do so without a need. The engagement ring (al-Shabka) and items similar to it (such as earrings) may be reclaimed by the suitor, whether they were considered part of the dowry or a gift. As for the gifts given by the fiancée to the suitor, she may reclaim them because they resemble a gift of recompense (hibat al-thawab) that is given with the intention of completing the marriage. The suitor is not obligated to bear the costs of the engagement party unless it is stipulated or customary.