Fears that the US could strike Iraq as early as January are driving up the price of gold to levels not seen for six years.

The lacklustre performance of stock markets around the world has contributed to the drive with investors seeking reliable places for their money.

So while South Africa's stock market has generally been listless, mining shares are now providing a boost.

A month of gains

As the market was closing on Tuesday for the break, gold prices had climbed as much as 1.4% to $348.35 an ounce.

AngloGold's shares rose 2% to 584.5 (£41.41; $65.99) rand, while Harmony Mining added 0.8% to 151.76 rand and Durban Roedepoort gained 1.1% to 36 rand.

In contrast, the broader market had ended the half-day session on a low note, with the Johannesburg All-Share index ending 0.22% down at 9,362.29.

Over the past month, all three companies' shares have scored significant gains. AngloGold has risen more than 20% since 24 November, while Harmony is up almost 30% and Durban up 25%.