Ultimate Guide to the Betrothal Ceremony
Traditions, Gold Jewellery Checklist, and Key Tips

The Guo Da Li (過大禮), or the traditional betrothal ceremony, is an important Chinese wedding custom. This deeply rooted tradition symbolizes the union of two families and their blessings for the couple. During the ceremony, the groom’s family prepares and presents a series of meaningful gifts to the bride’s family, expressing sincerity, respect, and goodwill. Among these gifts, gold jewellery is central to the ceremony, symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and marital harmony. Beyond their material value, these gold pieces embody cultural significance and heartfelt wishes for the couple’s lifelong happiness.

Four-piece gold set featuring gold ring, bracelet, necklace, and earrings for betrothal ceremonies

Steps of the Guo Da Li Ceremony

The betrothal ceremony is a time-honored tradition and an essential part of Chinese weddings. The ceremony is typically held 14 to 60 days before the wedding and involves the following key steps:

Choosing an Auspicious Date

Selecting a favorable date is the first step in the betrothal process. Following traditional customs, the groom’s family usually chooses a favorable day for Guo Da Li, ensuring the ceremony is imbued with auspicious meaning.

Presenting Betrothal Gifts
The groom’s family prepares a selection of symbolic gifts, including gold jewellery, pastries, wine, and other items that convey blessings and sincerity. These gifts are presented to the bride’s family as a gesture of respect and goodwill. Depending on tradition, the bride’s family may reciprocate with dowry items or monetary gifts as a token of appreciation.
Exchanging Blessings
During the exchange of gifts, family members often share auspicious phrases such as “A Century of Marital Harmony.” (百年好合) or “Blessing of Progeny " (早生貴子)These blessings reflect the families’ hopes for a harmonious and prosperous marriage.

More than a ritual, the betrothal ceremony celebrates cultural heritage and familial bonds, setting the foundation for the couple’s happiness.

The Symbolism of Gold Jewellery in Weddings

In Chinese weddings, gold jewellery is more than just a gift—it is a powerful symbol of wealth, prosperity, and enduring love. Iconic pieces such as the dragon-phoenix bangles and gold pig pendants carry profound cultural significance. The dragon-phoenix banglesopens in a new tab represent marital harmony and a blissful union, while the gold pig necklaceopens in a new tab symbolizes fertility, family abundance, and prosperity. These exquisite pieces are not only central to the betrothal ceremony but also serve as treasured keepsakes that embody the couple’s bright and prosperous future.

4-Piece and 5-Piece Bridal Gold Sets: A Wedding Essential

Dragon-phoenix bangles symbolizing marital harmony and family happiness in Chinese weddings

The 4-piece gold bridal setopens in a new tab is a classic and meaningful wedding gift, typically comprising:

Gold Ringopens in a new tab: A symbol of eternal commitment.
Gold Bangleopens in a new tab: Represents unity and completeness.
Gold Necklaceopens in a new tab: Signifies connection and bonding.
Gold Earringsopens in a new tab: Reflect listening and understanding in marriage.

This set is a staple in both Guo Da Li and the Chinese Tea Ceremony, adding elegance and cultural depth to the occasion. For families seeking a more elaborate option, the 5-piece gold bridal setopens in a new tab includes an additional item, such as a gold pendant or gold waist chain, offering even richer blessings and a touch of grandeur. These sets are ideal for those who wish to emphasize the importance of tradition and ceremony.

The Cultural Significance of Wedding Nine Treasures

The 'Wedding Nine Treasures' are a cherished Chinese tradition, with each piece symbolizing a unique blessing. This collection often includes symbolic pieces such as the gold ruyi, which represents smooth and successful endeavors, and the gold scissors, symbolizing the cutting away of troubles for a harmonious life. These treasures are often gifted to relatives as a gesture of goodwill and to express heartfelt hopes for the couple’s bright and prosperous future

How to Choose Gold Jewellery for Guo Da Li

Gold Pig Necklace representing prosperity and family abundance, a cherished wedding gift

In the ceremony, gifting gold jewellery is a meaningful tradition that conveys blessings and heartfelt wishes.

Dragon-Phoenix Banglesopens in a new tab: Often gifted by the bride’s parents as part of the dowry, these bangles symbolize marital harmony and family happiness with their intricate designs.
Gold Pig Necklaceopens in a new tab: Representing prosperity and family harmony, this pendant is commonly gifted by parents or relatives and serves as a wedding gift.
Gold Jewellery from Friends: Friends typically choose practical pieces like gold necklaces, bracelets, or earrings, perfect for both the wedding and daily wear.

Gold Jewellery for the Groom

In traditional Chinese weddings, the groom often receives specially designed gold jewelleryopens in a new tab as a wedding gift, which holds deep cultural and symbolic meaning. Among the most popular pieces are the gold pomegranate, which symbolizes fertility and blessings for a prosperous family, and the gold pouch, representing the union of wealth and wisdom. These meaningful gold pieces are not only decorative but also serve as heartfelt blessings for the groom’s future, making them an essential part of wedding traditions.

Key Tips for a Successful Guo Da Li Ceremony

When preparing for the ceremony, there are several important details to keep in mind. First, it is essential to understand the customs and expectations of both families to ensure the gifts are appropriate and meaningful. Second, when selecting gold jewellery, consider the bride’s preferences and style to ensure the pieces are both practical and visually appealing. Additionally, traditional etiquette plays a role in how gold jewellery is worn, such as the "Left Dragon, Right Phoenix" placement of dragon-phoenix bangles, symbolizing yin-yang balance and family harmony.

What Gold Jewellery is Needed for Guo Da Li?

Gold jewellery in the ceremony is not merely a material gift, it is a symbol of cultural heritage and blessings. When choosing gold pieces, it is important to combine their cultural significance with the couple’s personal style, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modern elegance. This thoughtful approach ensures the jewellery complements the wedding while honoring its cultural roots.

Chow Tai Fook, renowned for its high-quality gold jewellery and deep cultural heritage, plays a vital role in betrothal ceremonies. Whether you’re looking for four-piece gold sets, wedding nine treasures, or meaningful gifts for relatives, Chow Tai Fook offers the finest selection to make your wedding truly special. Click hereopens in a new tab to explore the perfect gold jewellery for your ceremony!