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Chinese wedding traditions: big diamonds and extravagant festivities

Until recently, most Chinese weddings were arranged. In Chinese culture, a marriage represented the joining of two families, and the proposals were initiated by the groom’s family. Nothing romantic about it.

But in the last decades, western cultures found their way into Chinese wedding traditions, including diamond engagement rings, wedding rings and extravagant weddings.

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How have Chinese wedding traditions evolved with Western influences?

Traditional Chinese weddings, once arranged and devoid of engagement rings, have evolved to include large diamond rings and extravagant celebrations. This shift is driven by Western cultural influences, economic prosperity, and the desire for social status. Modern Chinese couples now expect lavish proposals and weddings, reflecting a blend of historical customs and contemporary trends.

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a groom gifting his bride a 1 carat diamond engagement ring as part of chinese wedding culture

The Chinese engagement ring expectations

Chinese wedding traditions did not involve engagement rings in the proposal. But in modern China, women expect a large diamond ring from their suitor. So the stakes are high! Today, it is “go big or go home” when it comes to proposals and weddings, and the engagement ring is no exception. Chinese women have been known to reject proposals because the diamond was too small.
In younger generations, women want extravagant engagement rings with at least a 1-carat diamond. But did you know on what finger Chinese people wear their wedding rings? Traditionally, they are worn on opposite hands by the bride and groom; the bride wears the ring on her right hand and the groom wears his on his left.

The influence of Western culture

The influence of Western culture is a significant factor behind this shift. With the rise of globalisation, Chinese couples have become more exposed to Western wedding customs, including the prominence of diamond engagement rings. The demand for big diamond engagement rings is soaring, driven by the desire to showcase one's love and commitment in a grand manner.

This Western influence extends beyond engagement rings and into wedding rings as well. While older generations in China didn’t traditionally wear wedding rings, preferring other symbols of marriage like the exchange of gifts or specific wedding attire, the practice has become more common among younger couples, especially in urban areas. Today, many Chinese couples exchange rings during their wedding ceremonies, adopting this Western tradition as a modern symbol of their commitment.

However, unlike in the West, where wedding rings are often worn daily, many Chinese individuals choose not to wear their rings every day due to concerns about losing them or damaging them. Some even prefer to wear their rings as necklaces, blending practicality with personal sentiment. This blend of Western influence with traditional values allows couples to personalise their approach to engagement and wedding rings, reflecting both their personal style and cultural heritage.

Economic prosperity and social status

China's rapid economic growth has also played a crucial role in this trend. With more disposable income at their disposal, Chinese couples are willing to invest in luxurious rings. A large diamond ring is often seen as a status symbol, reflecting the couple's social standing and financial success.
A woman in a red qipao with floral embroidery poses elegantly for a photograph, showcasing traditional Chinese attire

Traditional Chinese wedding customs

Traditional Chinese weddings are a vibrant tapestry woven with rich cultural customs and meaningful rituals that reflect centuries of heritage.
The engagement ceremony
Imagine a formal engagement ceremony where the groom’s family presents beautifully wrapped gifts to the bride’s family, an act steeped in respect and commitment. This moment sets the stage for a beautiful journey ahead.

The bride’s elegance

On the wedding day, the bride transforms into a vision of elegance, donning a stunning red qipao or gown that symbolises good luck and prosperity. As she walks down the aisle, her vibrant attire dazzles everyone, embodying the joy of this special day. The groom stands proudly in a traditional dark robe adorned with intricate designs, showcasing his connection to the past.

Tea rituals

The heart of the ceremony lies in the tea rituals, a poignant moment where the couple serves tea to their elders. This act is not just a gesture of gratitude and respect; it intertwines their families, forging a powerful bond that honours their lineage. You can feel the warmth and love as family members come together, sharing stories and blessings.

Festivities filled with joy

The festivities burst with life, filled with traditional music and dance that resonate through the air, inviting everyone to join in the celebration. The tables are adorned with delicious feasts featuring symbolic dishes, each bite bringing joy and fertility to the newlyweds. As laughter and merriment fill the space, the atmosphere becomes a kaleidoscope of happiness.
Chinese wedding - Traditional Chinese wedding

A celebration to remember

Traditional Chinese weddings are more than just a union of two individuals; they are a celebration of love, family, and cultural heritage. Each moment is a testament to the beauty of traditions that have been cherished through generations, making these weddings truly spectacular and unforgettable.

All you need for the perfect engagement at BAUNAT

The popularity of big diamond engagement rings and extravagant weddings in China is a testament to the evolving nature of Chinese wedding traditions. This trend reflects the fusion of Western influences and traditional customs, driven by economic prosperity and the desire for personalised and memorable celebrations.

If you are planning your Chinese wedding, explore our exquisite collection of engagement rings at BAUNAT, where luxury and craftsmanship come together to create timeless pieces that symbolise your love.

Frequently asked Questions

Where is the BAUNAT showroom in Shanghai located?

The BAUNAT showroom in Shanghai is located at the following address:

BAUNAT | Shanghai
The Exchange SOHO, Room 3605
No.299, Tongren Road
Jing’an District, Shanghai 200070
China

Please note that the showroom is only available by appointment. Make an appointment directly via our contact form or contact us via e-mail at info@baunat.com , by phone on +86176 2140 7910.

Discover our showroom in Shanghai

Where is the BAUNAT showroom in Hong Kong located?

The BAUNAT showroom in Hong Kong is located at the following address:

BAUNAT Hong Kong
20F, Central Tower
28 Queen's Road Central
Central, Hong Kong

Please note that the showroom is only available by appointment. Make an appointment directly via our contact form or contact us via e-mail at info@baunat.com , by phone on +852 6060 4420.

Discover our showroom in Hong Kong

Why does BAUNAT have the best price/quality for fine diamond jewellery?

We invest in outstanding quality (in materials as well as design and finishing touch), but also in efficiency and do everything possible to avoid unnecessary intermediaries. No expensive marketing campaigns, luxurious offices and retail outlets. Our investment will be immediately seen in the BAUNAT diamond jewellery.

BAUNAT is based in Antwerp, renowned since 1447 as world centre of the diamond trade. Over half of the world's diamond trade takes place in Antwerp. The families behind BAUNAT have selected their diamonds directly from the best suppliers of the world since over 100 years.

BAUNAT buys its diamonds directly from the source, and sells its exquisite diamond jewellery collection on-line and in its offices to the client.

Direct buying and selling, avoiding the middleman, combined with a strict stock management, allows BAUNAT to offer the best and largest selection at the best price-quality ratio.
 
And last but not least: as more than 90% of our clients buy online (via our 8-lingual E-boutique, where clients can pay in 7 currencies and via a large variety of payment methods), we are able to handle very cost efficiently a fast growing customer base across the world (today BAUNAT sells to more than 50 countries), without having to invest in a large contingent of luxurious retail outlets and corresponding overheads. And this enables us to propose also this same exceptional price-quality to clients who choose to visit us in our showrooms in Amsterdam, Antwerp, Düsseldorf, Geneva, Hong Kong, London, Mumbai, Paris or Zurich
 
In short, BAUNAT promises its clients that its prices are in close correlation with the intrinsic cost of the underlying components & used material of the products on offer.

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