In Turkish tradition, the groom and his family give the bride gold on the way to the wedding – step by step, from the first request to the big celebration. The stations below give you orientation; order and scope differ from region to region and family to family.
The groom's family formally asks the bride's family for her hand. They traditionally come with an İsteme bouquet and chocolate; the bride serves coffee – to the groom often salted, as a little joke.
Gold gift (traditional)Usually gold isn't yet the focus, but flowers and chocolate. If the request is combined with the Söz, the first pieces of jewellery often come along too.
Gift ideasIf a first present is wanted: a fine gold chain with a pendant or a delicate bangle – understated and personal.
The marriage promise within the close family circle. Söz rings are often exchanged, joined with a red ribbon and separated by an elder of the family.
Gold gift (traditional)Söz rings (promise rings); the groom's side often pins a first piece of jewellery on the bride as well – usually a bangle (Bilezik) or a small set.
Gift ideasIdeas: a pair of simple Söz rings, a single bilezik, a delicate set of necklace and earrings, or a pendant with a Çeyrek coin.
The larger, official engagement celebration. The engagement rings are put on – a red ribbon cut by an elder of the family; gift bundles (Bohça) are exchanged between the families.
Gold gift (traditional)Engagement ring; the groom's family presents the bride with gold – traditionally a jewellery set (Takım) and/or several bangles.
Gift ideasIdeas: a solitaire ring (e.g. with a diamond) as the engagement ring, plus a set of necklace, earrings and ring – or several bangles as a set.
The evening before the wedding, mostly among the women. The bride wears a red, gold-woven Bindallı, and henna is applied. The dress and accessories of the henna night are traditionally provided by the groom's side.
Gold gift (traditional)As the henna is applied, a gold coin is often placed in the bride's hand – usually by the mother-in-law.
Gift ideasIdeas: a Çeyrek or Yarım coin, a coin pendant on a chain, or a single bilezik – fitting for the festive henna night.
The big celebration with the Takı-Töreni: family and guests pin gold and money on the couple for all to see – as a blessing and a financial head start.
Gold gift (traditional)The heart of the evening: the groom's family traditionally pins a jewellery set (Takım) and usually two bangles (Bilezik) on the bride. Gold coins such as Çeyrek, Yarım and Tam, plus Ata and Reşat, come from the guests. Turkish bridal gold is mostly 22 carat (916).
Gift ideasIdeas: a complete bridal set (necklace, earrings, ring, bracelet), a set of bangles, a selection of gold coins and – from the groom – a special single piece such as a necklace.
These pieces are especially popular as bridal gold – individually or combined, depending on the occasion and budget.
| Gold piece | When it fits |
|---|---|
| Bilezik (bangle) | For any occasion – single or as a set, a classic. |
| Set / Takım (necklace, earrings, ring, often bracelet) | Engagement & wedding – the classic gift from the groom’s family. |
| Gold coins (Çeyrek, Yarım, Tam, Ata, Reşat) | Takı ceremony and as an investment. |
| Söz, engagement & wedding rings | Depending on the stage – Söz, Nişan, wedding. |
| Necklace / pendant (e.g. with a coin or diamond) | As a special single piece, often from the groom. |
| Earrings (Küpe) | On their own or as part of the set. |
A tip: rather a few high-quality pieces (often 22 carat / 916) than many small ones – they keep their value and can be added to later. We're glad to advise you in person.
Order and scope vary greatly by region and family – İsteme and Söz are often combined, Söz and Nişan jewellery sometimes together. The bride's side traditionally gives to the groom as well, often a watch and a Tam Altın. See this as orientation, not a fixed set of rules.
We're glad to put together the right bridal gold with you – set, Bilezik, coins and rings in 585 or 916 – and test authenticity and fineness non-destructively on request. More on Turkish gold jewellery