Gold loans and pawning
The most widely used form of secured borrowing in Sri Lanka. The amount depends on the weight and purity of your gold.
How a gold loan works
You pledge gold jewellery to a bank or licensed pawnbroker and borrow against it. The amount is set by weight in sovereigns, carat purity, and the market price that day.
Rates are far lower than an online loan because the lender holds security.
What to check
- Advances are typically 70–80% of gold value
- 22-carat jewellery is most widely accepted
- Terms usually run 3–12 months
- Gold can be auctioned if you fall behind — know the exact deadline
- Use a licensed institution only
Compare gold loan and pawning rates by bank, with advances per sovereign.
Find gold loan and pawning branches in your district, with addresses and phone numbers for all 25 districts.
On rates: gold loan rates move with the market price, so we do not publish figures here until verified.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I borrow?
Usually 70–80% of the gold's value. The exact percentage varies by institution.
What happens if I fall behind?
The gold can be auctioned after the period stated in your agreement. Confirm that deadline before borrowing.
Your legal rights when you pawn: the Pawnbrokers Ordinance explained.
Used by borrowers across Sri Lanka
Know the real cost before you borrow
APR, total repayable and the lender registration — all in one place.
Compare rates