Gold prices edged lower across major Indian cities on Friday (May 08), with rates declining for 24-carat, 22-carat and 18-carat gold. The softer prices come at a time when many jewellery buyers are closely monitoring daily market movements before making purchases.

According to updated rates, 24-carat gold stood at ₹15,268 per gram, down ₹32. Meanwhile, 22-carat gold fell ₹30 to ₹13,995 per gram, while 18-carat gold slipped ₹24 to ₹11,451 per gram.

Chennai records highest gold rate among major cities

Among key cities, Chennai reported the highest rates on Friday. Twenty-four-carat gold was priced at ₹15,384 per gram, while 22-carat gold stood at ₹14,102 and 18-carat gold at ₹11,772 per gram.

In Delhi, 24-carat gold was selling at ₹15,288 per gram and 22-carat gold at ₹14,010. Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kerala, Pune and Bhubaneswar recorded similar prices, with 24-carat gold at ₹15,268 per gram.

Ahmedabad, Surat, Patna and Vadodara saw 24-carat gold priced at ₹15,278 per gram. Jaipur, Lucknow and Chandigarh reported slightly higher rates of ₹15,288 per gram for 24-carat gold.

Buyers spending more time researching before purchase

Jewellery retailers said consumers are now spending more time comparing prices, browsing designs and tracking market trends before making a purchase.

Industry executives noted that many buyers are visiting online platforms repeatedly to monitor rates and shortlist products before heading to stores. The trend has increased digital traffic, though actual purchases have slowed in some cases.

Jewellers also said price volatility has made customers more cautious. Many buyers are delaying purchases and waiting for favourable price movements, especially ahead of weddings and festive occasions.

At the same time, there has been growing demand for lighter jewellery and lower-value purchases, including daily wear collections and gold coins. Retailers said buyers remain interested in gold, but are planning purchases more carefully amid fluctuating prices.