but if it falls short of the nisab and cannot be combined with any other wealth, no zakat is due—unless it has been earmarked for trade, in which case zakat is obligatory on its market value.

Ruling on gilding walls and other objects with gold and silver, and on using utensils made of them:

It is forbidden to gild a ceiling or wall with gold or silver, or to plate any part of a vehicle or its keys with them; all of this is unlawful for the Muslim. Likewise, it is unlawful to gild a pen or inkwell with gold or silver, for such conduct is wasteful extravagance and self-aggrandizement.

It is also forbidden to make vessels from gold or silver or to coat them with these metals. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Whoever drinks from a vessel of gold or silver is only gulping down the fire of Hell into his stomach.”

A severe warning is likewise directed at men who wear gold rings. Regrettably, some Muslims still put gold rings on their fingers, heedless of—or ignorant about—this threat. They must repent to Allah for adorning themselves with gold and be content with what Allah has permitted: a silver ring. In what is lawful there is ample sufficiency from what is forbidden.

“Whoever is mindful of Allah, He will make a way out for him and provide for him from where he never imagined. And whoever puts his trust in Allah, He is enough for him. Allah will accomplish His purpose; Allah has set a measure for everything” (Quran 65:2–3).

We ask Allah to grant everyone insight into His religion, adherence to His law, and sincerity for His sake.