Mumbai, Apr 23 - Gold prices ended flat on the eve of `Akshaya Tritiya' at the bullion market here today in a mute trade, following absence of any buying interest from stockists and investors.

While, silver encountered further profit-selling by speculators after its recent rally amidst reduced industrial demand. "Jewellers are expecting better outcome in tomorrow's `Akshaya Tritiya' which is considered auspicious for buying the yellow metal," traders said.

Standard gold (99.5 purity) eased by Rs 5 to close at Rs 28,635 per 10 gm from last Saturday's close of Rs 28,640. Pure gold (99.9 purity) finished unchanged at Rs 28,770 per 10 gm.

Silver ready (.999 fineness) dipped by Rs 430 per kg to conclude at Rs 56,690 as against Rs 57,120 previously. In Europe, gold slid in dull trade on concerns that euro zone debt crisis could entangle higher-rated European countries amidst this week's Federal Reserve meeting.

Spot gold was down USD 1,629.69 an ounce in early trade and silver were lower at USD 31.00 an ounce. PTI