Gold and Silver Rate Today Live The bullion market is witnessing an intense rally today, February 21, 2026, as gold prices in India staged a powerful recovery. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold has successfully reclaimed the Rs 1.56 lakh per 10 grams mark, reversing earlier weekly losses. Simultaneously, silver has seen a significant jump, reflecting a broad-based surge in precious metals as investors rush toward safe-haven assets.
This sudden spike is primarily attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran, combined with a cooling dollar index. As global uncertainty rises, gold—often called the “crisis commodity”—has once again become the preferred choice for investors looking to protect their capital from market volatility.
Latest Gold Rates in India (February 21, 2026)
Retail gold prices across major Indian cities have climbed sharply by approximately Rs 800 to Rs 1,300 per 10 grams in a single session. Below are the current indicative rates for various purities:
| Gold Purity | Price per 1 Gram | Price per 10 Grams |
| 24K (Pure Gold) | Rs 15,664 | Rs 1,56,640 |
| 22K (Jewelry Gold) | Rs 14,360 | Rs 1,43,600 |
| 18K (Low Purity) | Rs 11,752 | Rs 1,17,520 |
In cities like Chennai, prices are slightly higher due to local demand and transportation costs, with 24K gold retailing near Rs 1,57,940 per 10 grams. Meanwhile, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore are trading closer to the national average.
Silver Prices Surge: Industrial and Investment Demand
Silver has outperformed gold in terms of percentage gains today. The white metal rose by over 1.2%, trading near Rs 2.45 lakh per kg in the spot market. On the MCX, silver futures for March delivery even touched the Rs 2.68 lakh per kg mark during volatile intraday trading.
The rally in silver is being fueled by two main factors: its role as a safe-haven asset and its growing industrial application in green energy technologies. Investors who missed the initial gold rally are now pivoting toward silver, seeing it as a more affordable entry point into the precious metals market.
Why Are Prices Moving Up? The 3 Main Drivers
If you are wondering why gold and silver have suddenly become so expensive today, three key factors are at play:
1. Geopolitical Risk Premium
The primary catalyst is the renewed tension in the Middle East. With the US issuing stern warnings to Iran regarding its nuclear program, the “geopolitical risk premium” has been embedded back into gold prices. Investors typically sell stocks and buy gold whenever there is a threat of international conflict.
2. MCX Margin Rollback
A major domestic trigger for Indian traders was the decision by MCX and NSE to withdraw additional margins on gold and silver futures. By removing the extra 3% to 7% capital requirement, the exchanges have increased liquidity, allowing more traders to enter the market and push prices higher.
3. Fed Interest Rate Cues
While US inflation remains a concern, many analysts are now pricing in at least two interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in the second half of 2026. Lower interest rates make non-yielding assets like gold and silver more attractive compared to bonds or savings accounts.
24K vs 22K: Which One Should You Buy Today?
With gold crossing the Rs 1.56 lakh milestone, it is crucial to understand which type fits your needs:
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For Investment (24K): If your goal is to save money for the long term, always opt for 24K gold bars or coins. They offer the highest purity (99.9%) and have the best resale value because they don’t carry the heavy “making charges” associated with jewelry.
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For Jewelry (22K): If you are buying for a wedding or personal use, 22K gold is the standard. It contains 91.6% gold mixed with other metals for durability. However, remember that you will have to pay GST (3%) and making charges on top of the market rate.
Expert Outlook: Will Gold Hit Rs 1.60 Lakh?
Market analysts are cautiously optimistic. Technically, gold has formed a strong support base at the Rs 1,54,000 level. If the current momentum continues and the metal stays above Rs 1,56,800 on a closing basis, we could see a fresh rally toward the Rs 1,63,000 mark in the coming weeks.
However, retail buyers are advised to use a “buy-on-dips” strategy. Instead of buying a large amount at once during a peak, consider purchasing in small increments during minor price corrections to average out your cost.
Today’s jump in gold and silver rates is a clear signal that precious metals remain the ultimate hedge against global instability. Whether you are a retail buyer or a seasonal investor, keeping a close eye on the MCX live rates is more important than ever.