Pandemic may uproot the foundations of Victorian style jewellery souk, Zaveri Bazar

As the virus tightens its grip on ‘the city of dreams’, shops in the narrow lanes of Zaveri Bazaar, one of the most popular jewelry markets in Mumbai may be relocated to some other spacious place to avoid the risk of covid outbreak.

Being one of the biggest hubs for B2B and B2C merchandising some of the top jewelry brands have their stores in the Zaveri Bazaar, situated at the north of Crawford Market. To the amazement of the tourists there are thousands of small jewelry shops selling precious stones, uncut jewelry, gold, silver, brassware dotting the sideways of the market.As a matter of fact over 60% of all gold trading and dealing happen at Zaveri Bazaar in Mumbai.

With a network of narrow lanes, spirited shoppers and food joints  this bazaar is at a high risk of outbreak hence the India Bullion & Jewellers Association plans to relocate the gold trade to a 60-acre plot in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai.

Built in the 19th century, the market also retains charm due to archaic victorian and gothic style buildings, street food and photo frames. Bazaar used to dazzle during festive season as the rates for ornaments would come down and people looking for traditional Indian designs, Kundan and Jadau work on the jewelry find no better place to do the shopping than Zaveri Bazaar without having to worry about the quality. All kinds of precious stones, gems and precious metal are also sold in the market.

Apart from jewelry there are shops selling other reasonably priced aesthetics like wood, brass photo frames, dinnerware sets, toys, lifestyle goods, furniture and so on that a visitor will find tempting.

It is worth notifying that Zaveri Bazaar is credited for the largest export of gold jewelry and gems to countries in the Middle East from India.

Cover image by My Gold Guide