Hollow gold offers big looks at lower weight and cost
Jewellers say hollow gold designs let buyers wear bold, voluminous pieces for less, as gold prices have softened in the Gulf and India.
Hollow gold jewellery is made with internal cavities, so it contains less metal than a solid piece of the same size. Many thick hoops and bangles use hollow tube construction to achieve their volume. Designers say the technique is not new, but rising prices have made it more visible. Gold prices have fluctuated in 2026, and they fell nearly 4 per cent in October and are down 13 per cent over the past six months. In the UAE, 24-karat gold has dropped below Dh500 per gram. Jewellers say three groups are buying hollow pieces: younger and first-time buyers seeking impact on a budget, brides and wedding guests wanting dramatic volume, and fashion-led shoppers who want oversized designs. Large Indian retailers such as Tanishq and Malabar Gold & Diamonds have started stocking hollow designs. Investment buyers and those buying heirloom gifts still prefer solid gold, where weight and resale value matter. John Paul Alukkas, CEO of Joyalukkas Jewellery, said hollow structures allow pieces that look grand and voluminous while being lighter on the wallet. Designers note that depending on design and thickness, hollow pieces may dent or deform more easily than solid ones.