In most parts of northern China, it is customary to give three gold (or hardware) jewelry as a dowry when getting married.

Sanjin refers to three pieces of gold jewelry. It is generally believed that the more expensive Sanjin jewelry is, the more it can show the wealth of the man's family, and it can also reflect the importance that the man attaches to the woman.

Although most young people seldom wear gold when they get married, most families will follow the custom of giving away gold jewelry.