Gold price in Sri Lanka climbed sharply on February 19, 2026, reflecting firm global bullion momentum and local currency dynamics. The latest rates show notable differences across 21, 22, and 24 carat categories.
Gold price in Sri Lanka hits Rs. 398,800 per pawn amid firm market trend
The domestic bullion market recorded a firm uptick on February 19, 2026, with the Gold price in Sri Lanka strengthening across all major purity segments. According to the latest market update, 22 carat gold—widely used in Sri Lankan jewelry—was priced at Rs. 398,800 for 8 grams, commonly referred to as one pawn. On a per-gram basis, 22 carat gold stood at Rs. 49,850.
The upward movement aligns with resilient international gold benchmarks and steady retail demand in the local market. Investors and jewelry buyers continue to track daily fluctuations closely, particularly as bullion remains a preferred hedge against currency volatility and inflationary expectations.
The 24 carat segment, which represents the highest purity level commonly traded, was quoted at Rs. 54,380 per gram. An 8-gram unit of 24 carat gold reached Rs. 435,050, marking a clear premium over lower-purity variants due to its higher gold content and stronger linkage to global spot prices. Meanwhile, 21 carat gold was recorded at Rs. 47,590 per gram, translating to Rs. 380,700 per pawn.
Below is the detailed breakdown of today’s rates:
| Gold Unit | Gold Price |
|---|---|
| Gold Ounce | Rs. 1,541,577.00 |
| 24 Carat 1 Gram | Rs. 54,380.00 |
| 24 Carat 8 Grams (1 Pawn) | Rs. 435,050.00 |
| 22 Carat 1 Gram | Rs. 49,850.00 |
| 22 Carat 8 Grams (1 Pawn) | Rs. 398,800.00 |
| 21 Carat 1 Gram | Rs. 47,590.00 |
| 21 Carat 8 Grams (1 Pawn) | Rs. 380,700.00 |
The differential between 24 and 22 carat gold remains significant, with a gap of Rs. 4,530 per gram. This spread is primarily attributable to purity composition. While 24 carat gold contains 99.9 percent pure gold, 22 carat typically consists of approximately 91.6 percent gold mixed with alloy metals to enhance durability. As a result, jewelry consumers often balance between aesthetic preference, resale value, and price sensitivity when making purchasing decisions.
From an investment standpoint, bullion continues to attract interest amid uncertain global macroeconomic conditions. Movements in international gold futures, shifts in U.S. dollar strength, and central bank monetary policies often transmit quickly into Sri Lanka’s retail market. Currency depreciation can amplify local gold prices even when global spot prices remain relatively stable.
Market participants note that the pawn-based pricing convention remains deeply embedded in Sri Lankan consumer behavior. One pawn, equivalent to 8 grams, serves as the standard transactional unit for jewelry purchases and pledging practices. This cultural benchmark makes the Rs. 398,800 level particularly relevant for households evaluating buying or pawning decisions.
The Gold price in Sri Lanka also reflects seasonal and demand-driven factors. Wedding seasons, festive periods, and remittance inflows typically increase buying activity, placing upward pressure on retail quotes. Conversely, periods of subdued consumer spending can moderate price acceleration despite strong global trends.
Retailers indicate that volatility management has become increasingly important. Sudden price swings can influence inventory turnover cycles and consumer sentiment. Some buyers prefer phased purchasing strategies—acquiring smaller gram quantities over time—to average out price fluctuations. Others closely monitor daily updates before committing to larger transactions.
Comparatively, the ounce price of Rs. 1,541,577 underscores the scale difference between international trading units and local retail conventions. While global markets transact primarily in troy ounces, Sri Lanka’s retail ecosystem remains gram- and pawn-focused, creating a localized pricing narrative that blends global benchmarks with domestic demand conditions.
Looking ahead, analysts suggest that short-term price direction will hinge on international bullion momentum and exchange rate stability. If global gold sustains its upward trajectory, the domestic market may see further incremental increases. However, any correction in global spot prices or strengthening of the Sri Lankan rupee could temper gains.
For consumers, the key consideration remains timing and purpose. Jewelry buyers often prioritize craftsmanship and design alongside price, whereas investors focus on purity and resale value. Monitoring daily rate changes and understanding purity differentials can help households make more informed decisions in a dynamic market environment.
As of February 19, 2026, the prevailing data confirms a firm Gold price in Sri Lanka across all purity categories, reinforcing bullion’s role as both a cultural asset and a financial safeguard.