BT LUXE-LEE HWA EXCLUSIVE

Lee Hwa’s golden homage to bridal jewellery

The contemporary jeweller brings a bold, modern sensibility to heritage designs as traditional gold jewellery experiences a revival

Published Fri, Jul 25, 2025 · 06:15 PM
    • Lee Hwa's Imperial Gold collection shows technical mastery as it elevates traditional goldsmithing.
    • Lee Hwa's Imperial Gold collection shows technical mastery as it elevates traditional goldsmithing. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    THERE IS NOTHING QUITE LIKE a wedding. The journey that culminates in the joining of two hearts, two lives, into a promise of love and commitment deserves more than just a celebration – it must be distinguished with lasting, cherished symbols.

    For centuries, the tradition of gifting a bride with gold jewellery and the exchanging of wedding bands have marked marital unions.

    From the joy of exploring diverse designs and excitement of selecting rings to the cool sensation of a necklace draping onto one’s neck – these are timeless signs of devotion the world over.

    Yet, beyond romantic gestures, couples are increasingly recognising the multifaceted value of these precious mementos.

    Imperial Gold earrings in 999 gold with diamonds. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    Wedding jewellery ornaments, after all, are also meaningful investments, tangible products of fine craftsmanship and strong statements of personal style.

    In their quest for pieces that reflect both their values and individuality, many are rediscovering the irresistible pull of gold, with the lustrous metal experiencing a powerful renaissance.

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    As bold, timeless gold jewellery makes a resurgence, the discerning are looking to Lee Hwa – a leading purveyor of jewellery for over half a century – for its distinctive take on this marvellous material.

    Welcome, to the full splendour of Imperial Gold and ITALGOLD.

    Imperial Gold – Where heritage meets heirloom

    As the first in the world to introduce purple gold and popularise white gold, Lee Hwa is once again blazing the trail with Imperial Gold. With it, the jeweller pays homage to centuries of Chinese goldsmithing heritage, yet elevates tradition by reimagining it for today’s astute couples.

    Imperial Gold necklace and pendant in 999 gold with diamonds. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    Drawing on the opulence of ancient Chinese craftsmanship, pieces are crafted in pure 999 gold using artisanal techniques once reserved for the Imperial Court. Expertise in filigree, hammering, engraving and enamelling are on full display, as pieces come to life in fabulous forms.

    Imperial Gold earrings in 999 gold with diamonds. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    Each piece is then carefully hand-finished with a signature satin-matte texture, complete with intricate ornamental detail. Showcasing Lee Hwa’s technical mastery and innovative spirit, select pieces are even set with brilliant diamonds – a rare achievement in 999 gold given its inherent softness.

    The beauty of Imperial Gold jewellery belies the fact that their designs are also steeped in meaning. Many pieces in the collection carry powerful cultural symbolism – koi fish representing abundance and perseverance; floral motifs symbolising love, harmony and new beginnings; and bamboo signifying strength, resilience, integrity and longevity.

    Imperial Gold ring with dragon design in 999 gold. PHOTO: LEE HWA
    Imperial Gold ring with phoenix design in 999 gold. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    Select designs are also inscribed with auspicious Chinese characters to convey blessings and prosperity.

    Blending heritage and artistry with enduring value, Imperial Gold is both a cherished bridal gift and a treasured modern heirloom to be passed down from generation to generation.

    ITALGOLD – Modern armour for the fearless couple

    Where Imperial Gold represents powerful symbolism and precious legacy, ITALGOLD embodies artisanal Italian craftsmanship in bold, contemporary designs.

    Its distinctive Italian aesthetics, architectural forms and gender-inclusive edge endear the collection to confident couples who desire strong, individualistic expressions of luxury in 916 gold.

    ITALGOLD bracelet in 916 gold. PHOTO: LEE HWA
    ITALGOLD earrings in 916 gold. PHOTO: LEE HWA
    ITALGOLD ring in 916 gold. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    Witness the sculptural silhouettes, striking chain links, geometric shapes and polished beads – each an unmistakable mark of distinctive style. Worn individually or sumptuously layered, ITALGOLD jewellery is everyday luxury designed to take its wearer effortlessly from wedding to every occasion thereafter.

    ITALGOLD Aurion ring in 916 gold. PHOTO: LEE HWA
    ITALGOLD ring in 916 gold. PHOTO: LEE HWA
    ITALGOLD Aurion necklace in 916 gold. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    In a daring evolution of the collection, Lee Hwa recently introduced ITALGOLD Aurion, a new range created for the self-assured, modern gentleman. Faithful to the DNA of the original, this series is crafted with masculine sensibilities in mind and features bold silhouettes and refined detailing. Yet, it also resonates powerfully with women who embrace a fearless, statement-driven style.

    What else could be more ideal for a dapper groom and chic bride seeking complementary jewellery that speaks to their shared style and strength?

    Mediacorp artiste, Desmond Tan. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    Perhaps the epitome of an ITALGOLD Aurion man is none other than award-winning actor, Desmond Tan. One could say the devoted husband and father is the modern groom’s muse. Stylish, accomplished and sophisticated, Tan’s courtship with his university sweetheart eventually led to a beautiful wedding ceremony in France four years ago.

    As the face of modern romance, his personal journey of love, marriage and parenthood finds poetic resonance in the collection that is designed not just for weddings, but each and every milestone that follows.

    So much so, Tan has curated a collection of Desmond’s Signatures – bold yet authentic pieces – showcasing some of his favourite picks.

    Romance Cove – A dedicated bridal haven

    Wedding jewellery shopping needs to be personal and meaningful. To that end, Lee Hwa has thoughtfully designed its boutiques to offer a refined and intimate experience matching its commitment to celebrating love and milestones.

    Find serenity and personalised service at the Romance Cove in Lee Hwa boutiques. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    Amid the chaos that can come with wedding planning, a visit to the Romance Cove at ION Orchard, for instance, is a special encounter in a serene haven. Here, personalised service, careful advice and utmost privacy come together to create the perfect environment for considered decision-making.

    Besides engagement rings, wedding bands with diamonds and in 916 and 999 gold, traditional Si Dian Jin betrothal sets and occasion sets offer a wide range of options for couples.

    After all, jewellery is not just being bought, but chosen with great care and intention.

    A piece from Lee Hwa’s 999 Gold Bar Bridal Series. PHOTO: LEE HWA

    Speaking of intention, those who understand wedding traditions will also know the significance of gold bars as a treasured part of bridal gifting. For an option that marries cultural meaning with tangible investment value, look to Lee Hwa’s 999 Gold Bars.

    Exclusively designed in-house and released in limited editions, each gold bar tells a story of love, unity and new beginnings, fashioned through intricate details and meaningful motifs. A harmonious blend of tradition and modern sensibility, these are refreshing takes on a customary token that will last for generations.

    Indeed, when it comes to bold bridal jewellery, ceremony alone just won’t cut it. Authenticity, self-expression, heritage, enduring value and meaning – they need to come together in a magical, harmonious mix to create some very special pieces.

    And after an illustrious 55 years, you can be sure that is something Lee Hwa understands well. Why shop anywhere else?

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