Demand for platinum jewellery is booming in China, according to the latest figures.

The China Gem Association revealed that jewellery is now the third most popular consumer item, after property and cars.

China is already the world's biggest platinum consumer, using around 1.2 million ounces of the precious metal every year.

China's middle class has been growing in line with its economy, meaning there are more people with money to spend.

Despite a recent slowdown in the automotive sector, jewellery shows little sign of running out of steam.

Sun Fengmin, secretary general of the China Gem Association, said the increased appetite for gold, platinum and diamond products has seen double-digit growth for the jewellery sector, which is now worth $12 billon.