Gold price surge in Kurdistan Region affects citizen purchases, jeweler says
Gold is traditionally considered a vital component of marriage preparations and is deeply ingrained in the cultural practices of the region.

Erbil (Kurdistan 24) - The recent surge in gold prices within the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has significantly impacted citizens' ability to purchase the precious metal, particularly during the marriage process, according to local jewelers.
Dana Warti, spokesperson for Erbil jewelers, told Kurdistan24's correspondent Shayma Bayiz, "Several years ago, the price of a mithqal (approximately 4.25 grams) of 21-carat gold in the KRG markets was around 250,000 dinars. At that time, many citizens would purchase about 30 to 35 mithqals of gold for their wives. However, with prices now exceeding 520,000 dinars per mithqal, citizens are buying significantly less, typically between 10 to 15 mithqals."
Gold is traditionally considered a vital component of marriage preparations and is deeply ingrained in the cultural practices of the region.
However, the record high prices this year have turned gold into a financial burden for many, particularly young men who are expected to purchase it as part of marriage customs.
The sharp increase in gold prices has also led to a noticeable decline in the number of customers frequenting jewelry markets. "Due to the rise in gold prices, the jewelry market is much quieter compared to previous years," Warti noted.
As gold prices reach unprecedented levels, there is growing sentiment that women may need to adjust their expectations during marriage negotiations, potentially demanding less gold to ease the financial strain on their partners.