Spanish Wedding Jewellery: Arras, Rings, Traditions and Bridal Pieces

Introduction: three days of celebration and a box of thirteen coins

A Spanish wedding is not a single event. It unfolds across several occasions: the engagement gathering, the civil registration, the church ceremony, the reception banquet, and the morning-after breakfast that keeps guests together a little longer.

Each stage has its own jewellery. Thirteen coins the groom presents to the bride in a small casket. Wedding bands worn on the right hand, not the left. A grandmother's brooch pinned to the gown. A mantilla held in place by an ornamental comb. A pendant or heirloom necklace resting at the throat.

This is not simply a collection of beautiful objects. It is a system. And it only makes sense once you understand the rules behind it.

For British couples planning a destination wedding in Spain, or those incorporating Spanish tradition into a ceremony at home, this guide covers every element: what to wear, what the arras ceremony means, which regional styles differ, and how to put together a complete bridal jewellery set.

What the bride needs for a Spanish wedding

The wedding band (alianza)

The central piece. Several things distinguish the Spanish alianza from the Anglo-Saxon tradition:

• Worn on the right hand, not the left (as in Italy, Germany, Greece and much of continental Europe). The left hand remains for other pieces.
• Often plain without stones: the classical Spanish preference is for a smooth gold band. Diamond-set rings are a modern influence from North America and the United Kingdom.
• Yellow gold 18ct is the dominant choice. White gold and platinum are a contemporary influence.
• Engraving inside: names, the wedding date, a short phrase.

Price range: from mid-market (plain 14ct) to high-end (18ct with diamonds).

Bride's earrings

Three main types:

• Stud earrings (pendientes de botón): round studs with pearl or diamond. The classic choice for the church ceremony.
• Drop earrings (pendientes largos): longer pieces for the reception and banquet, often worn with the mantilla.
• Creole hoops (aros): large gold hoops, especially popular in Andalusia.

Necklace or pendant

Unlike traditions where the necklace is the focal point, Spanish brides frequently wear something more restrained under the mantilla, since the mantilla itself provides the visual focus. Common choices:

• A fine gold chain with a cross (Catholic tradition)
• A family heirloom (grandmother's pearl strand)
• A small religious medallion (the Virgin Mary, a crucifix)

Brooch

A defining element of Spanish bridal style. This is often a family heirloom, the so-called "grandmother's brooch." It can be worn:

• On the bodice (as a central accent)
• On a jacket (for winter or evening receptions)
• On the mantilla itself (pinned at the chest or shoulder)
• At the waist (as a focal point on the belt or sash)

Bracelet

Not obligatory, but commonly:

• A single-strand pearl bracelet
• A slim rigid gold bangle
• A charm bracelet with family keepsakes

Hair: the peineta comb

Essential when wearing a mantilla. A large decorative comb (traditionally tortoiseshell, jet, or modern resin) anchors the mantilla to the hair.

Tiara or crown

This has grown more popular over the past decade, partly through the influence of British royal weddings. It is not part of classical Spanish tradition, but it is widely accepted today.

Garter brooch (la liga)

The garter is the Spanish equivalent of the "something blue." A blue garter worn beneath the gown, often with a small brooch or charm attached.

The arras de boda

A tradition unique to Spain. Thirteen coins in a decorative casket, which the groom presents to the bride during the ceremony.

What it symbolises

The thirteen coins represent material provision. Historically, a woman held no property rights, and the thirteen coins were the groom's promise to share everything he had. The modern reading is equal partnership and shared financial responsibility. Some couples now exchange the coins mutually rather than the groom presenting them alone.

Why thirteen

Several theories exist:

• The twelve apostles plus Christ equals thirteen
• Thirteen months in the historical lunar calendar (a minority theory, but it circulates)
• A dozen with one extra, signifying abundance beyond the standard measure

The coins themselves

Historically: Spanish escudos, reales, doubloons. Today:

• Decorative coins made for the purpose, not legal tender
• Often personalised with the couple's names, initials or date
• Gold or silver finish
• In some regions, a single coin is later made into a pendant keepsake

The casket

A special box for presenting and storing the coins:

• Velvet lining inside
• Gold or silver finish outside
• Sometimes engraved with the couple's names and wedding date
• May be a family heirloom passed down from parents

After the wedding

The coins are kept as a keepsake:

• Stored in the casket as a family archive piece
• One coin made into a pendant
• Passed to godchildren or grandchildren as an inheritance

Regional differences across Spain

Andalusia

The most ornate tradition. Large creole hoop earrings, the mantilla is obligatory, the peineta is large, dresses feature flounced tiers. The flamenco aesthetic influences even non-flamenco weddings.

Catalonia and Barcelona

More contemporary in character. Modern Catalan design brands are popular, dresses lean towards fashion-forward cuts. The mantilla is optional and often replaced with a contemporary veil or sheer headpiece.

Basque Country

Distinctive Basque symbolism: the lauburu (Basque cross) appears in jewellery. Classic plain gold bands, often engraved with the lauburu inside the ring.

Galicia

Pilgrimage and Celtic aesthetic. The scallop shell of Santiago appears as a brooch or pendant. Azabache (black jet stone) is woven into bridal jewellery.

Madrid

Classic royal-capital style. The traditional mantilla (especially the black mantilla negra for formal weddings), family heirlooms dominant, antique gold parures from established families.

Canary Islands

A distinctive blend of Latin American and Berber influence. Flowers in the hair, local stones such as olivine from Lanzarote.

Wedding gifts: jewellery in Spain

From the bride's family to the bride

• Family heirlooms: mother's pearl strand, grandmother's cross, great-grandmother's brooch
• New jewellery: the family often commissions earrings or a pendant specifically for the wedding
• A ring as inheritance: grandmother's wedding band resized and worn on the other hand

From the groom to the bride

• The arras: the thirteen coins (the most significant gift)
• A morning-of-the-wedding piece: a pendant with initials, earrings, a bracelet
• An engagement piece: a ring or bracelet given at the time of the proposal

From the bride to the groom

• His wedding band: a matching pair
• A signet ring: engraved with the family crest (where tradition exists)
• Cufflinks: for the formal banquet

Jewellery for the groom

Often overlooked in wedding guides, but the groom also needs considered pieces.

Wedding band

• Yellow or white gold 14ct to 18ct
• Plain (classical) or with subtle texture (contemporary)
• Worn on the right hand
• Often engraved inside with the bride's name or wedding date

Cufflinks

For a formal shirt worn with a morning suit, dinner jacket or lounge suit. Often:

• Family heirlooms
• A gift from the bride
• Monogrammed with the couple's initials

Signet ring

An engraved ring bearing the family crest. Common in established families. Not obligatory, but traditional.

Tie pin

With a pearl, a small stone, or a monogram.

Boutonniere pin

A small brooch for the buttonhole flower. Often set with a modest stone.

Traditional Spanish symbols in wedding jewellery

The Cross of Santiago

The red cross of the Order of Santiago, a symbol of the Christian Reconquista. Appears as a pendant or brooch at weddings.

The Hand of Fatima (hamsa)

A protective symbol, though today more common as everyday jewellery than as a specifically bridal piece.

The crucifix

Central to Catholic ceremony. In a religious wedding it is usually worn on a chain or used as a brooch.

Regional Virgins

The local incarnation of the Virgin (Virgen del Rocío, Virgen del Pilar, Virgen de la Paloma) as a medal or pendant. Especially popular in Andalusia, Madrid and Valencia.

The azahar (orange blossom)

The flower of the lemon or orange tree, symbolising purity and marriage. Worn as a brooch or in a floral wreath. In jewellery, stylised blossoms rendered in gold or silver.

The fan

The Spanish fan is not jewellery, but it is part of the bridal ensemble. Occasionally a decorative brooch is pinned to it.

Customs and superstitions

The four things

The Spanish version of "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" operates in much the same way, particularly at modern weddings.

Never lend the wedding ring

The wedding band should not leave the finger after the engagement. Removed only for sleeping (if necessary) or in specific circumstances.

Pearls and tears

In some Spanish traditions pearls at a wedding are said to bring tears to the marriage. This is regional; many brides wear pearl jewellery without any concern.

The number thirteen

The thirteen arras coins make thirteen an auspicious number (inverting the usual superstition). However, thirteen guests at a table is still considered unlucky.

Garnet

Garnet in bridal jewellery symbolises fidelity and passion. The tradition is particularly strong in Andalusia.

Spanish wedding jewellery through the centuries

Medieval Spain

Aristocratic weddings featured gold chains, jewelled brooches, and rings of chivalric orders. The arras tradition already existed in this period.

The Age of Discovery, 16th to 17th century

Colonial gold and silver from Mexico and Peru became the foundation of Spanish bridal jewellery. Large crosses, heavy chains, pearl strands. Baroque pearls from the Philippines were a feature of this era.

Baroque and Rococo

Excess defined the period: aristocratic brides wore every piece simultaneously. The mantilla became obligatory. Creole hoops became a standard feature.

Romanticism, 19th century

The modern form of the Spanish wedding crystallised. Arras caskets became a commercial product. Pearl necklaces from Mallorca entered mass circulation.

Modernisme, early 20th century

The Catalan Modernisme movement brought a new aesthetic to bridal brooches, particularly pieces with cloisonné enamel.

After Franco (1975 onwards)

A revival of regional traditions. The mantilla returned as a deliberate statement of cultural identity. The arras ceremony became a near-universal ritual.

Today

The Spanish wedding has absorbed every layer: a traditional mantilla paired with a contemporary dress, a stone-free alianza alongside a social-media-inspired aesthetic.

Bride's checklist

Essential

• Wedding band on the right hand
• The arras casket with thirteen coins (held by the groom for the ceremony)
• A necklace piece (gold chain with cross, pendant or pearl strand)
• Earrings (studs for the church, drops for the reception)

Optional

• Brooch (often a family heirloom)
• Bracelet (pearl or slim gold bangle)
• Tiara or crown (contemporary influence)
• Mantilla with peineta (for a traditional ceremony)
• Garter with small brooch

Spare set

• A second set of earrings for the reception (drop earrings to replace the studs)
• A jewellery box that travels with the bride during outfit changes

Groom's checklist

• Wedding band on the right hand
• Cufflinks for the shirt
• Tie pin
• Signet ring (optional)
• The arras casket (thirteen coins, received from family or purchased)

Guest etiquette

• Women: avoid white (as in most countries), do not outshine the bride. Pearl, gold, and pastel tones are appropriate. Red is perfectly acceptable in Spain, unlike in some other cultures.
• Men: conservative suit, simple cufflinks, wedding band. Avoid crown-like accessories.
• Mantilla: if worn, black for formal weddings or ivory/cream for morning ceremonies.

Frequently asked questions

Which hand do Spanish people wear their wedding ring on?

The right hand. This distinguishes Spanish couples (along with Germans, Greeks and many continental Europeans) from the Anglo-Saxon practice of wearing it on the left. Historically, the Catholic tradition associated the left hand with less auspicious significance.

Is a mantilla required at a Spanish wedding?

Not in contemporary Spain. Many brides choose not to wear one. However, a traditional ceremony, particularly in Andalusia, Madrid or a devout family, often still expects the mantilla. It is a personal choice.

How much should the arras coins cost?

The value is not the point. This is a symbolic gesture, not a financial transaction. Decorative coins from family heirlooms (old Spanish reales) carry more meaning than expensive new pieces.

Can we combine Spanish and international traditions?

Yes. Many mixed couples do exactly this: arras alongside vows in two languages, a mantilla paired with a contemporary gown. What matters is that both families feel their culture is represented.

What do we do with the arras coins after the wedding?

Keep them in the casket as a family heirloom. Or pass them to children and grandchildren. In some families, one coin is made into a pendant for the first child.

Can we use a family wedding ring?

Yes, and this is genuinely valued. A grandmother's or great-grandmother's ring can be resized by a jeweller. This tradition is particularly strong in established families.

Does the groom give a pendant?

Not obligatory, but common. Often set with a sapphire, garnet or pearl as a marker of the new life beginning.

What is the difference between confirmation jewellery and bridal jewellery?

Confirmation jewellery is simpler (a small cross, a fine chain). A wedding calls for more layered pieces: mantilla, peineta, family heirlooms.

Gold or silver for a Spanish wedding?

Gold is traditional, particularly yellow gold 14ct to 18ct, especially for the wedding band. Silver appears in accent pieces such as brooches and earrings, but the alianza is almost always gold.

Should the wedding bands match?

It is not a strict rule, but matching bands in the same metal and style are the contemporary standard.

Putting together a Spanish bridal set

The starting point

For a bride who wants clarity without complexity:

• One gold wedding band in 14ct
• Pearl stud earrings
• A fine gold chain with a small cross
• A brooch (a grandmother's piece if available)

Price range: mid to upper-mid market.

The complete traditional set

For a full classical ceremony:

• Wedding band in 18ct gold
• Stud earrings for the church
• Drop earrings for the reception
• Pearl strand or pendant
• Brooch (heirloom)
• Black mantilla
• Peineta (large, tortoiseshell or jet)
• Garter with brooch

Price range: high-end.

The heirloom-centred set

• Wedding band with diamond in 18ct gold
• Family pearl strand (heirloom)
• 19th-century brooch (antique)
• Hand-made mantilla de maha
• Antique jet peineta
• Collector's arras coins (recast from genuine historical pieces)

Price range: investment level.

Conclusion

Spanish wedding jewellery is not a shopping list. It is a system where each element carries meaning. The alianza on the right hand declares marital status. The arras with thirteen coins pledges shared material responsibility. The mantilla with peineta connects the bride to tradition, even in a fully contemporary wedding. The grandmother's brooch bridges generations.

Every couple decides which traditions to observe and which to set aside. That is precisely what makes the Spanish wedding more personal than a standard checklist.

About Zevira

Zevira makes jewellery by hand in Albacete, Spain. We work from the heart of the Spanish artisan tradition and regularly create bridal sets, from wedding bands to arras collections.

For a Spanish wedding you will find at Zevira:

• Wedding bands for the right hand (the Spanish tradition)
• Arras de boda sets of thirteen coins in silver or gold
• Bridal brooches with regional motifs
• Drop earrings for wearing with a mantilla
• Matching bracelets for bride and groom
• Spanish wedding symbols (Cross of Santiago, rose, fan)

Every piece is made by hand by a craftsperson, with the option of personal engraving. We work in 925 silver and 14ct to 18ct gold.

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