The Dominion Post - CLAIRE ROGERS - Photographer - MAARTEN HOLL - With rocketing gold prices, it's silver's turn to shine this Christmas. Since November last year, the price of gold has increased from $1775 an ounce to $1863 - and by about 80 per cent since November 2007. As a result, says Village Goldsmith owner Ian Douglas, silver is a popular - and cheaper - alternative to gold this year.