1.   Gold prices fell to a four-week low amid signs of slower growth in the U.S. economy, expectations of muted inflation and weak jewelry demand.

2.   Gold prices traditionally strengthen in the second half of the year because of seasonal factors, such as holiday jewelry demand.

3.   Gold prices rallied from a three-year low as signs of a seasonal increase in jewelry demand offset strength in the U.S. dollar.

4.   In LONDON, platinum fell on expectations that the economic slowdown in Japan will lower jewelry demand for the precious metal in the country next year.

5.   Lower jewelry demand in the U.S., Japan and Europe was offset in part by growing investment demand.

6.   Meanwhile, gold jewelry demand in Asia is slowing as tumbling local currencies reduce purchasing power.

7.   New York and Geneva are the biggest diamond markets for international demand, with London the center of jewelry demand.

8.   Prices also fell after weaker-than-expected retail jewelry demand during December, usually the busiest period of the year.

9.   Prices normally strengthen in the second half because of seasonal factors, such as Christmas jewelry demand.

10.   Rising jewelry demand from Asian consumers and lagging mine production in South Africa are behind the move.