A silver jewelry market in Duhok. Photo: 964
A shift in wedding traditions
Rising demand for silver jewelry in Duhok
DUHOK — Demand for silver jewelry in Duhok has recently surged, resulting in a price increase.
A survey by 964media in Duhok’s central market revealed that Italian and Turkish silver are particularly popular, with Italian silver priced between 6,000 and 8,000 Iraqi dinars per gram, and Turkish silver ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 dinars per gram.
Ammar Subhi, who owns a local silver jewelry store, reported to 964media an unprecedented demand for silver during his decade in business. The primary customers are women, who often purchase silver as gifts. According to Subhi, “Rings, bracelets, and necklaces are especially popular, with rings being the top seller, each going for more than 70,000 dinars.”
Subhi has observed a trend among brides preferring silver over gold for their weddings, selling over 40 bracelet sets monthly to brides.
Adnan Suleiman, another shop owner, noted a shift in purchasing patterns, with both Christians and Muslims showing a growing interest in silver. High-end items like rings for $500 and bracelets for $2,000, though less commonly sold, appeal to a niche market.
Sterling silver, or 925 silver, is favored for jewelry and silverware because it balances purity and durability. It contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper, offering a mix of softness for design and strength for durability.