Gold symbolises fortune, power and longevity in Chinese culture, so it is no surprise that for generations items made from the precious metal have been the most popular gift for wedding couples.

The phoenix represents beauty, grace and the Chinese yin, while the dragon represents power, strength and the yang. The two are embroidered together on the dresses to symbolise a long, happy marriage.

The dragon and the phoenix are common motifs in Chinese wedding jewellery. They always appear in pairs and represent harmony between the masculine and the feminine.