Precious metals normally register maximum sales on these two festivals, considered to be auspicous occasions for making token purchases in Hindu mythology.
In addition, the sentiment firmed up after gold gained in in overseas markets as concerns about deepening eurozone sovereign debt crisis spur demand for the metal as a protection of wealth. Gold in overseas markets, which normally set price trend on the domestic front, gained USD 5.50 to USD 1,658.97 an ounce and silver by 0.2 per cent to USD 31.81 an ounce in London.
Silver coins, mostly used for `Laksmi Puja` and gifting purposes during Dhanteras, Diwali and Bhaidooj, also surged by Rs 1,000 to Rs 63,000 for buying and Rs 64,000 for selling of 100 pieces. On the domestic front, gold of 99.9 and 99.5 per cent purity added Rs 30 each to Rs 27,160 and Rs 27,020 per 10 grams, while sovereigns ended flat at Rs 22,000 per piece of eight grams.
Similarly, silver ready strengthened by Rs 200 to Rs 53,700 per kg and weekly-based delivery by Rs 20 to Rs 53,300 per kg, respectively.