In Portugal, any piece containing precious metals must be recognised by the Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda (National Mint).
19.2 carat gold is the national benchmark, valued for its durability and pure gold content.
A gold wedding ring is a continuous piece, traditionally without beginning or end, symbolising permanence.
Technically speaking, it is a ring made from a gold alloy, whose composition determines its strength, colour and longevity.
Pure or fine gold (24k) is too soft for everyday wear, so it is combined with other metals.
Contains 79.2% pure gold;
Offers a balance between richness and strength.
Contains 75% pure gold;
Slightly harder.
Contains 58,5% pure gold;
Greater mechanical strength, lower gold content.
Contains 37.5% pure gold;
Offers greater mechanical strength but has a lower gold content and a higher proportion of other metals
In Portugal, 19.2 carat gold is traditionally favoured and widely used in jewellery intended to last.
Other metals added to gold to create the alloy. The choice depends on the piece and the maker's preference.
Provides greater malleability and a lighter tone;
Frequently found in yellow gold alloys.
Increases hardness;
Introduces warmer tones;
Essential in achieving rose gold.
Used in white gold;
Gives a light colour and strength;
An alternative to nickel, especially in higher-quality pieces.
Also used to achieve white gold;
Increases hardness;
Its use has been declining due to the risk of allergic reactions.
Used in small quantities;
Improves the alloy's fluidity during manufacturing
The authenticity of a gold ring must always be verified through the official hallmarks.
In Portugal, this certification is guaranteed by the Assay Offices (Contrastarias) of the Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda (INCM), which apply legal marks to the pieces.
A certified ring will display:
There may be further marks: in the case of Leitão & Irmão, pieces can carry up to six marks, adding to the compulsory ones a brand signature, piece numbering, serial number, and the signature of a guest artist.
This system, regulated and documented by the INCM, ensures the metal matches its stated purity, making it one of the most important criteria when choosing a ring.
The choice should be based on objective criteria, not just aesthetics.
19.2k gold offers a suitable balance for everyday wear, maintaining its structural integrity over time.
Rounded inner profiles (comfort-fit) allow the ring to be worn continuously without excessive friction.
The width of the ring should suit the hand, avoiding disproportionate sizing.
Polished: a reflective, classic surface
Brushed: a more understated look, although the texture tends to wear away over the years
Mixed: a combination of textures
A timeless design will prevent the piece from feeling dated.
The best gold wedding ring is one which combines:
There is no universal choice; only the choice best suited to the context and the couple.
The use of high-purity gold in Portugal is well documented in studies on goldsmithing and precious metal regulation.
The Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda, as the body responsible for the assay offices, upholds a control system with historical roots, ensuring consistent quality standards.
Works such as “A Ourivesaria em Portugal“ (António Filipe Pimentel) and institutional documentation from the INCM describe the evolution of these criteria, reinforcing the importance of official certification.
To choose a gold wedding ring with confidence, consider:
An informed decision ensures not only the physical durability of the piece, but its lasting symbolic meaning over time.
Jewellery
Woman
Man
Category
Material
Collection
Home
Category
Collection
Gifts
Gifts for
Occasion
Explore
House Leitão
House Leitão
Manufacturing in Lisbon
L&I Commitment
Welcome to the wonderful world of Leitão & Irmão
Stay up to date with the latest news, get early access to new collections, invitations to private events, and enjoy priority appointment booking.
By subscribing to Leitão News, you declare that you agree to the Privacy Policy of Leitão & Irmão.
Thank you
Enjoy Leitão & Irmão products.
Pular para o conteúdo
