Must the fiancée return the engagement jewelry to her former fiancé after the dissolution of the engagement, and will she be held accountable for it if she does not return it, and how can it be returned without causing problems for both parties?
The "shabka" (betrothal gift) is considered part of the mahr (dowry) according to common custom in Egypt. The decisive factor in contracts is the meanings, not the mere words, and this is evidenced by the agreement on its value between the two parties. Scholars have held that the shabka is considered part of the mahr, and the suitor has the right to reclaim it if the marriage does not take place, even if it was a gift presented due to the marriage. Therefore, the shabka must be returned, or its value if it is not available, unless the suitor waives his right. It can be returned via a mahram (unmarriageable kin) without informing the husband if harm is feared.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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