Gold and jewelry have held a special place in Islamic culture for centuries. From stunning earrings to intricately crafted rings, these ornaments are not only adornments but also carry cultural and spiritual significance. What exactly does Islam say about wearing jewelry and gold? Is it permissible for everyone? And how do beauty and modesty relate to each other in this context?
In this article, we delve deeper into the religious, cultural, and practical aspects of jewelry and gold in Islam.
1. The love of beauty in Islam
Islam recognizes and values beauty. In a well-known hadith, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ says:
“Allah is beautiful and loves beauty.”
(Hadith – Sahih Muslim)
Jewelry is not necessarily frowned upon; on the contrary, it can contribute to grooming one's appearance – something that is actually encouraged in Islam, as long as it remains within the bounds of modesty and faith.
2. Gold for women
In Islam, women are permitted to wear gold jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, and bracelets. It's even considered a form of adornment appropriate to a woman's nature. Many women wear gold jewelry on holidays, at weddings, or as heirlooms with sentimental value.
In Sahih Muslim there is a tradition that women wore gold in the presence of the Prophet ﷺ without him directing them to refrain from doing so, which indicates that it was permissible.
In addition, giving jewelry is also a customary form of mahr (bride-price) at marriage – a sign of appreciation and honor.
3. Gold for Men: Banned or Not?
For men, it's different. In several narrations, the Prophet ﷺ explicitly forbids men from wearing gold.
In a hadith from Abu Dawud he says:
“They (gold and silk) are permissible for the women of my ummah, but forbidden for the men.”
The reason behind this lies partly in the principle of humility and the avoidance of excessive luxury for men. Islamic scholars therefore agree that wearing gold by men is haram (forbidden), whether it's a ring, necklace, or watch.
However, alternatives such as silver rings or watches without gold are permitted.
4. Other precious metals and jewelry
Besides gold, other precious metals and stones are loved in the Islamic world: silver, platinum, agate ( aqeeq ), onyx and turquoise ( firouzeh ) are often worn for their beauty or spiritual symbolism.
The Prophet ﷺ himself wore a silver signet ring engraved with his name. Many men today follow suit, wearing silver rings set with stones such as aqeeq or firoza .
5. Zakat on gold and jewelry
From a religious-financial perspective, it's important to note that zakat (poor tax) is payable on gold and silver if the property reaches the nisab (exemption threshold) and remains in possession for a year. There is some debate among scholars regarding jewelry worn exclusively by women, but many believe zakat is also due on such items if they are substantial.
It is therefore important that one does not only view one's jewelry as aesthetic objects, but is also aware of the religious obligations that may be attached to it.
6. Balance between beauty and modesty
The Islamic view of jewelry revolves around balance. Beauty is valued, but excess, boasting, and extravagance are discouraged. For this very reason, Islam encourages wearing jewelry with the right intention—as personal adornment, out of gratitude for Allah's gifts, not as a status symbol or source of arrogance.
Final Thought
Gold and jewelry are deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and culture. They are a source of beauty, a sign of love in marriage, and a means of expression. At the same time, Islam invites us to consciously engage with that beauty, paying attention to its religious guidelines, spiritual meaning, and social context.
Whether you're wearing an heirloom from your grandmother or a symbolic ring with a meaningful stone, jewelry—when worn with humility and gratitude—can be a beautiful part of Islamic life.
Want to learn more about Islamic lifestyle, jewelry, and spiritual symbolism? Then take a look at our webshop !