Platinum jewellery sales surge 30% in India during April-May

MUMBAI (Scrap Monster): Platinum jewellery purchase has outpaced gold during the initial two months of the current fiscal year. The platinum jewellery sales during April to May this year surged higher by 30% over the previous year. The strong growth in sales was primarily driven by sharp plunge in platinum prices relative to gold and growing demand for bridal jewellery and chains.

Analyzing the jewellery buying pattern by Indian customer over the recent years, industry participants note that platinum jewellery has managed to gain prominence. The men’s jewellery segment has witnessed tremendous growth. Platinum chains have turned out to be hot favorite among Indian men population. The exclusive new range of trendy designs in bridal jewellery collection has also contributed to the spurt in sales. The recently launched ‘Evara’ wedding jewellery collection has become immensely popular among Indian youth.

Most importantly, prices of platinum have fallen below gold. The declining price trend has attracted Indian households towards white gold sheen of platinum. Incidentally, platinum is currently priced at around Rs 27,000 per 10 grams, lower when compared with gold prices at nearly Rs 27,400 per 10 grams.

Platinum jewellery has witnessed increased acceptance in traditionally conservative eastern Indian markets. The demand for platinum is expected to accelerate further during the year. The upcoming wedding season demand in the country is expected to take platinum jewellery purchases to new heights.

Meantime, recent report published by the Platinum Guild International (PGI) predicts 25% surge in Indian platinum jewellery sales as against the projected global demand growth of 2.3% in 2015. The report based on survey predicts 7% expansion in platinum jewellery sales in the US. The Japanese retail platinum jewellery market is likely to grow marginally by 1%, whereas Chinese growth may remain flat during the year.