Gold Usage in Islam: Permissible for Women, Prohibited for Men
Hadith Evidence
- Gold & Silk: The Prophet ﷺ held gold and silk and said, “These two are forbidden for the males of my Ummah and permissible for its females.” — (Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi, Nasai)
- Gold Ring: A man wearing a gold ring was told to remove it; the Prophet ﷺ said, “Would you like to hold a burning coal?” — (Sahih Muslim)
Qur’anic Principle
“Whatever the Messenger gives you, take it; and whatever he forbids you, abstain from it” (Al-Hashr 59:7). The Sunnah clarifies the prohibition for men.
Scholarly Consensus
- All four schools (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanbali) agree: gold is haram for men and halal for women.
- Men may wear silver rings; other metals (steel, titanium, platinum) are permitted if not imitating women’s jewelry.
Specific Rulings
- Men’s Jewelry: Gold rings/chains/bracelets/watches — prohibited.
- Gold Plating: Visible gold plating is generally prohibited.
- White Gold: If it contains real gold, it is also prohibited for men.
- Medical Necessity: Allowed when truly necessary and no alternatives exist (e.g., dental caps).
For Women
Women may wear gold jewelry; modesty and avoiding extravagance remain essential Islamic principles.
References
- Sahih Muslim — prohibition of gold ring for men
- Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi, Nasai — “Gold & silk: forbidden for men, permitted for women”
- Qur’an 59:7 — command to follow the Messenger ﷺ
The Ultimate Guide to Gold Purity, Carats, and Choosing the Best Ornaments
Gold is more than just a precious metal—it represents culture, tradition, and financial security. Across civilizations, gold ornaments have symbolized wealth, elegance, and prosperity. However, when it comes to purchasing, buyers often face confusion regarding purity, carat value, durability, and hallmark certification.
Understanding Gold Purity
Pure gold (24K) is too soft for jewelry, so it's mixed with metals like copper, silver, or zinc to strengthen it. This mixture determines its carat value which affects color, durability, and design flexibility.
Gold Carat Levels Explained
- 24K (99.9% Pure) – Brilliant yellow, ideal for coins or investment.
- 22K (91.6% Pure) – Preferred for bridal jewelry; retains shine and purity.
- 21K (87.5% Pure) – Durable for heavy designs.
- 18K (75% Pure) – Balanced strength & elegance, perfect for diamond-studded ornaments.
- 14K & 10K – Affordable, strong, widely used in Western markets.
Pros & Cons of Different Carats
✅ Pros
- Higher carats = more purity
- Lower carats = stronger and durable
- Maintains long-term investment value
- Supports diverse jewelry designs
❌ Cons
- 24K & 22K are soft and scratch easily
- Lower carats have less vibrant yellow color
- Price differences can be confusing
Factors to Consider Before Buying Gold
- Hallmark – Always buy certified gold
- Purpose – Bridal (22K), daily wear (18K), investment (24K)
- Design Strength – Heavier designs need stronger alloys
- Resale Value – Purity ensures better returns
- Market Rates – Check gold price daily before buying
Gold as an Investment
Gold remains a reliable asset, particularly during economic uncertainty. Owning gold ornaments not only enhances your style but also secures your financial future.
FAQs on Gold Ornaments
24K gold is the purest but too soft for daily wear; 22K and 18K are preferred for ornaments.
18K gold offers strength, durability, and elegance for everyday jewelry.
22K balances purity, shine, and tradition, making it ideal for bridal jewelry.
Hallmarking is certification ensuring the gold’s authenticity and purity.
Final Thoughts
Gold ornaments are not just decorative—they are legacies. By understanding carats, purity, and hallmarking, you ensure that your gold remains both elegant and a smart investment. Always buy certified gold from trusted jewelers, so your ornaments shine for generations.