What is the ruling when a husband gives gold or silver as dower, and the wife fashions it into jewelry, increasing its value?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Dowry (Mahr)

Book 36 · Issue 2 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If the dower given was gold or silver, and the wife fashioned it into jewelry resulting in an increased value, the wife has the right to prevent the husband from reclaiming half of it. If the husband offers her half of the jewelry's value, he is obligated to accept the exchange because gold does not diminish through the process of goldsmithing and remains suitable for its prior potential uses.