A marriage is incomplete without the "box of gold"-- what's that?! I asked, like a little child listening to a story about magical treasure chests. In traditional Palestinian marriages many women get a box which contains a set of gold jewelry as a gift from her soon-to-be husband. This box often contains a full set- earrings, bracelet, necklace, gold coins etc. Someone once explained it to me as her "insurance." Indeed timeless objects to trade in in times of need.
Walking through Gaza's Old City, I was introduced to the "gold street"-- where lots of women were sitting in little nooks on the side inspecting different pieces of jewelry, finding the perfect ones to suit their needs. Ah, it was a row of sparkling and shimmering magic - all of which comes through tunnels from Egypt. Likely, very few can afford these lavish gifts below.
