Gold, But Make It Gen Z: Redefining Gold For The Modern Era On Dhanteras

Last Updated:October 07, 2025, 08:49 IST

Gold is no longer just an heirloom, it’s an everyday expression. From stackable hoops to sustainable styles, Gen Z is giving gold a modern, meaningful glow-up.

Once seen as heirloom and heritage, gold is now being reimagined by Gen Z as a symbol of individuality, sustainability, and everyday style, blending investment with self-expression.

In a world where trends change with every scroll, gold stands as a rare constant — luminous, enduring, and deeply symbolic. Once synonymous with tradition and heirloom, the precious metal is finding a new rhythm with younger generations. For Gen Z, gold is not just a marker of wealth or heritage; it’s an evolving medium of self-expression, one that can shift shape with their moods, styles, and values.

“Gold jewellery remains a cornerstone of value and style in an industry driven by ever-changing trends,” says Supriya Kataria, founder, Kumari Fine Jewellery. “Its consistent worth makes it a reliable investment, while its enduring appeal resonates across generations.” For Kataria, gold’s dual identity as both an emotional and financial investment is what keeps it relevant even as fashion cycles accelerate.

But today’s young consumers are not content with simply owning gold; they want to interpret it. For them, value lies not only in karats but in character. “For Gen Z, gold is more than a precious metal; it’s a smart choice that aligns with their dynamic lifestyles,” Kataria adds. “They value its lasting financial security but also seek designs that can be customised, recycled, or restyled to reflect their evolving tastes.”

That focus on adaptability and self-expression is redefining how the jewellery industry designs and markets gold. The new generation expects sustainability and flexibility, pieces that move seamlessly from work to travel, brunch to boardroom, tradition to trend.

This sentiment lies at the heart of Litestyle by PNG, a brand committed to giving gold a contemporary voice. “With Litestyle, we wanted to redefine the notion that gold jewellery is reserved only for grand occasions or traditional heirlooms,” explains Hemant Chavaan, Head of Marketing and E-commerce, Litestyle by PNG. “Gen Z sees jewellery as an extension of their personality expressive, experimental, and rooted in culture. They buy it only when they relate to it.”

Chavaan’s insight underscores a fundamental shift: the why behind a purchase matters as much as the what. Litestyle’s collections echo this shift through lightweight, accessible designs that complement the rhythm of everyday life. “Each piece is designed to be your everyday companion,” he says. “Minimal yet versatile, perfect for pairing with streetwear, stacking with watches, or layering with fine jewellery. It’s about giving gold a new vocabulary, one that speaks the language of individuality, mood, and self-expression while retaining its timeless value.”

Meanwhile, the aesthetics of gold itself are undergoing a quiet revolution. No longer limited to ceremonial wear, it’s now the ultimate power accessory. As Kataria points out, “This season, gold hoops have become a hallmark of modern style, as young people are opting for multiple piercings to create layered hoop looks that are both a statement of individuality and a collective trend.” The concept of bold gold pairing gleaming metal with unapologetically vibrant colours has emerged as a defining motif of Gen Z style.

At its core, this transformation is not about rejecting heritage, but about reimagining it. Much like the metal itself malleable yet resilient today’s gold jewellery mirrors the spirit of its wearers. It can be minimalist or maximalist, sentimental or street-smart, depending on the context and mood.

Perhaps that’s the true beauty of gold in the Gen Z era: it transcends labels. Whether worn as a quiet talisman or a confident statement, it remains what it has always been authentic, radiant, and timeless. Only now, it’s telling a story in a new language, one of creativity, sustainability, and fearless self-expression.

Swati Chaturvedi

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More

Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More