Dragon and Phoenix Bangles: A Chinese Wedding Tradition No matter the culture, a bride looks her most beautiful on her wedding day, and glimmering jewellery is usually used to complete her outfit. For a Chinese traditional wedding ceremony, there is no exception - a pair of gold dragon and phoenix bangles plays this essential role. These bangles are usually presented by elders to represent blessings and expectations for the couple and help make the day magical and memorable.
Both dragon and phoenix are mythical beasts and usually appear as a pair. In ancient times, they represented "auspiciousness"; while a combination of the two is used to symbolise a good relationship - the natural harmony between two people.
Chow Sang Sang offers dozens of dragon and phoenix bangle styles. From classic to more contemporary designs, these bangles are crafted in a variety of techniques and range from lighter to heavier versions. You are bound to find one suitable as an auspicious gift for the lovely couple.
The Classic Dragon and Phoenix ‘Carving’
As elders favour gifting traditional bracelets, the classic round shape with dragon and phoenix relief is most common. Electroforming is used to make the pattern more three-dimensional in appearance and to the touch, giving a vivid effect.
Modernity and Tradition Infused
The younger generation sometimes to prefer more modern designs. In this case, a more abstract carving could be an option, where the dragon and phoenix carvings are less literal.
The statement wide-body bangle
Typically, dragon and phoenix bangles are 2cm to 3cm wide, while the wide-body style is 4cm to 6cm wide, making them especially eye-catching. They will surely catch everyone’s attention when paired with a traditional Chinese wedding gown with mid-sleeves!
Fine Gold Jewellery Sets
In addition to dragon and phoenix bangles, other gold jewellery pieces also express blessings for the couple. Gold pig necklaces, which represent blessings for fertility, have regained popularity among young couples in recent years. Other necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings and hair accessories with floral designs also enhance the bride’s outfit while symbolising wealth, auspiciousness, and happiness.
Five questions people often have about dragon and phoenix bracelets
1.How should I wear the dragon and phoenix bracelet
(on left and right arms)?
(on left and right arms)?
Traditionally, the dragon and phoenix bangles are worn in a specific way, known as "left dragon, right phoenix." This means wearing the dragon bangle on the left arm and the phoenix bangle on the right arm.
2. How many pairs of dragon and phoenix bangles should the bride wear?
There is no specific number, but it must be an even number, which means in pairs.
3. Dragon and phoenix bangles have different widths, so how to wear them?
The narrowest ones go closest to the wrist and the widest ones at the top.
4. How to maintain the bangles?
As the gold material is relatively soft and can get deformed easily, we recommend storing them in its original jewellery box, away from other jewellery.
5. What should I do if I am overseas but want to gift a dragon and phoenix bangle to the newlyweds?
Relatives overseas can purchase dragon and phoenix bangles or gold jewellery through Chow Sang Sang's Eshop, and gifts can be delivered directly to the recipient.