Old Gold Gets New Shine as High Prices Shape Diwali Jewellery Buying

Indian jewellery buyers are exchanging old gold and choosing lightweight designs as elevated gold prices influence festive-season purchases, according to the World Gold Council.

The trend is helping jewellers maintain sales value even as customers buy smaller quantities of gold.

Gold has traditionally been an important part of India's festive and wedding purchases.

However, elevated prices have encouraged consumers to consider exchanging existing ornaments, choosing lighter designs and adjusting the quantities they purchase.

Old-gold exchanges are becoming an important part of jewellery retail sales.

Higher gold prices are affecting jewellery demand by volume.

The exchange of old gold for new jewellery is gaining importance in India's festive-season market as consumers look for ways to manage the cost of purchases amid elevated gold prices.

According to the World Gold Council's October 2026 India market update, old-gold exchange transactions increased by more than 10 per cent year-on-year and accounted for over 50 per cent of sales for some jewellery retailers.

Domestic gold prices averaged Rs 1,48,891 per 10 grams in Q3 2026.

Average domestic gold prices remained 45 per cent higher year-on-year.

From Nation Path India