What Gold to Give at a Turkish Wedding
What gold is pinned on the bride and groom at a Turkish wedding? A guide to choosing wedding gold that suits the budget of families and guests.
Weddings are one of the most important parts of Turkish culture, and for newly married couples they are also a way of building a financial foundation. In Turkey, wedding gold (düğün takısı) is not just a beautiful gift; it is the couple's first security as they start their new life. During the preparations, the question both families and guests think about most is what gold to give. The answer depends on how close you are, your budget and local traditions.
Choosing the right gift matters, both so that it does not strain the giver's budget and so that it makes a meaningful contribution to the couple's future. The range is wide, from the sets bought by close family to the standard gold coins chosen by guests.
What do the immediate families give the bride?
At weddings, the greatest responsibility usually falls on the parents of the bride and groom. The groom's side traditionally gives the bride a jewellery set and several bangles. These sets usually consist of a necklace, a bracelet and earrings. In recent years, alongside heavy 22 karat sets, elegant 14 karat sets better suited to everyday wear have become popular. The style of the set should suit the bride's taste and habits.
When choosing bangles, families balance investment and appearance. They usually go for low-craftsmanship models because these hold their value better. We cover this in choosing a 22 karat gold bangle. The bride's family may also give bangles or large coins such as the gremse according to their budget. To see different sets and bangles, browse our catalogue.
What gold is given to the groom?
Although wedding gold brings the bride to mind first, there are also traditions for the groom. The bride's family wants to give him a lasting and valuable gift, and a quality wristwatch usually comes first.
As for gold, it is customary to give the groom an Ata Lira, a full coin or a chain. Coins pinned to the groom's lapel with a ribbon symbolise the support of the bride's family. We explain the differences between the Ata Lira and the full coin in Republic gold, Ata Lira and Reşat coins compared.
Wedding gold options for close relatives
Close relatives such as siblings, uncles and aunts usually choose from Turkish gold coins according to their budget. Siblings often give a half or full coin. When the budget is tighter, the quarter coin is the most common choice.
Close relatives look for a gift that is both impressive and easy to turn into cash. Sometimes, instead of each pinning a quarter coin, they club together to buy the bride a bangle or a gremse coin. Before buying, check current prices on our market screen.
Gift ideas for guests and friends
For close friends, colleagues and distant relatives, the choice usually comes down to standard products. The timeless classic at weddings is the quarter coin. Weighing about 1.75 grams, this 22 karat coin fits a wedding gift budget. For details, see how many grams is a quarter gold coin.
When gold prices are high, 0.5 and 1 gram packaged 24 karat gold bars are chosen as an alternative to the quarter coin. Their elegant packaging makes them a budget-friendly gift. Groups of friends can also pool their budgets to buy one larger coin or a bangle.
Suggestions by closeness
| Relationship | Common choices | Main purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mother and father | Jewellery set, 22 karat bangles | Appearance and core financial support |
| Siblings | Full coin, Ata Lira, half coin | A significant contribution |
| Uncles and aunts | Half coin, quarter coin | Traditional support |
| Close friends | Quarter coin, 1 gram gold | Emotional and financial contribution |
| Distant relatives and colleagues | 1 gram or 0.5 gram gold | Taking part within budget |
What to watch when buying a wedding set
If you are buying a jewellery set for the bride on the groom's side, always keep the craftsmanship cost in mind. Diamond sets or finely crafted 14 karat designs look stunning, but the craftsmanship fee is not refunded if they are sold. Their purpose is not investment but to be jewellery the bride will wear for years.
If families care more about investment, 22 karat sets with simple designs may be the more sensible choice. In our store you can look closely at models in different karats and ask any questions. For our address and opening hours, see our contact page.
The wedding ribbon and presentation
At Turkish wedding ceremonies, a long red or burgundy ribbon (takı kurdelesi) is usually used for pinning the gold. Guests attach the gold they bring to this ribbon with small pins. When buying coins for a wedding, make sure the pin is attached and that the coin comes in a box or pouch. Packaged gram gold cannot be pinned, so it can be presented in its pouch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does the gold pinned on the bride belong to?
In decisions of Turkey's Court of Cassation, gold pinned on the woman at a wedding is accepted as belonging to her, unless there is an agreement or local custom to the contrary. Because each case can differ, consult a lawyer for definite advice.
What karat are wedding sets usually made in?
Traditional heavy necklaces and woven sets are mostly made in 22 karat gold. More modern, delicate sets with stones are usually made in 14 karat so that the stones are held securely.
Can an old-dated quarter coin be given at a wedding?
In financial value, there is no difference between old-dated and new-dated quarter coins. Traditionally, giving the newly married couple a coin minted that year is seen as a courtesy, but there is nothing wrong with giving an old-dated one to suit your budget.
Is gold given to the groom besides a watch?
Yes. It is a common custom to give the groom a gold chain, a name pendant, or coins such as the Ata Lira and full coin to be pinned to his lapel.
At Erya Gold Kuyumculuk you can follow live buying and selling prices, and reach our store in Ümraniye with any question.
