The motif of the dragon and the phoenix represents the perfect marriage in Chinese culture, so it’s little surprise that it’s a vital part of Chinese wedding jewellery. Lynnette Lee explores the traditional adornment’s importance to the modern bride
At first glance, Chinese wedding jewellery appears intimidating: big, heavy and aggressively yellow. But despite this, many tasteful modern women wear it with pride on the biggest day of their lives.
Because like the world’s most famous jewels, it’s the sentiment and provenance that really counts. Chinese wedding jewellery is laced with meaning and soaked in culture— it reminds us of who we are. It carries the well-wishes of those dearest to us: hopes and dreams that have been passed from generation to generation.
The jewellery is traditionally given by the groom’s family as part of the bride price, signifying that the bride is welcomed to the fold as a treasured member: it is said that having a woman in your home is like having gold. The type of jewellery given varies by group: Cantonese and Hakka families give “Dragon and Phoenix Bangles”; Chiu Chow and Hokkien families give the “Four Pieces of Gold,” a set of four items. Elders on both sides will also pass on heirlooms to show the bride how cherished she is.
This story is from the Summer 2017 edition of Hong Kong Tatler Weddings.
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This story is from the Summer 2017 edition of Hong Kong Tatler Weddings.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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