Meghan's wedding band sparks a trend for rare Welsh gold

When Meghan Markle arrived at St. George's Chapel on her wedding day, a surge of bridal trends were instantaneously born.

From her casual up-do decorated with a bandeau tiara and cathedral-length veil, to her white Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy gown—brides all over the world were updating their Pinterest boards with anything and everything royal.

Beyond the dress, Markle and Prince Harry continued the 95-year-old tradition of having their wedding bands made from rare Welsh gold, sparking a retail boost for Welsh businesses specialising in creating gold jewellery.

The couple's wedding bands were designed by Cleave & Company using rare Welsh gold gifted to the royal couple by Queen Elizabeth II.

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Since the Royal Wedding, Clogau -- a family-owned business from North Wales -- has announced plans to open four new stores. While talks of the expansion were already in motion prior to the May 19 wedding, a spokesperson for the company says that there is no doubt that recognition for Welsh gold has grown since the event.

"We get a lot of exposure when there is a royal wedding," the spokeswoman for Clogau explained. "It was the same when William and Kate got married. It definitely gives business a boost. Whenever the public becomes aware of the royal connection then there is increased interest in rare Welsh gold."

"We have our own bridal concept," the spokeswoman added. "We have a trilogy-style engagement ring and [Meghan’s] ring was the same style as that," she said of the engagement ring given to Markle by Prince Harry, designed by Cleave & Company and including diamonds owned by Princess Diana.

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The tradition of using Welsh gold in royal wedding bands began in 1923. Princess Diana, Kate Middleton and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall have all had Welsh gold included in their rings.

This is not the first time 'The Meghan Effect' has played out (and it definitely will not be the last!). The white coat by Line the Label that Markle wore when she and Prince Harry announced their engagement on November 27, 2017 immediately sold out in all outlets.

The coat (which is now aptly named the 'Meghan coat') continues to sell out whenever it is restocked.

Clogau says they will open four stores across Swansea, Llandudno and Bangor in Wales in the UK in October. The brand will also expand the store at Cheshire Oaks in England.