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Jeweller shares the cost of Albo's custom engagement ring

<p>A jewellery expert has shared the estimated cost of the custom diamond ring Anthony Albanese bought to propose to his long-term partner Jodie Haydon. </p> <p>The Prime Minister shared the heart-warming news of the engagement on Valentine's Day, sharing a loved up snap of the happy couple, as Jodie showed off her ring. </p> <p>Albo revealed he chose Nicola Cerrone’s Leichhardt-based Cerrone Jewellers store to design the diamond ring before popping the question.</p> <p>Now, a different NSW jeweller has shared their estimated  cost of the impressive diamond, telling NCA NewsWire the ring could be worth up to $240,000. </p> <p>The jeweller, who wished to remain anonymous, admitted diamonds are incredibly varied in terms of pricing depending on colour, cut and clarity and difficult to evaluate from an image, but they confirmed Mr Albanese didn’t appear to spare any expense. </p> <p>“This looks to be roughly a 3ct Round Brilliant Cut Diamond on an 18ct Rose Gold Band,” the jeweller said.</p> <p>“The ring is a four prong solitaire with a slightly wider band - definitely a very popular style at the moment!”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3W8CdZyXd5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3W8CdZyXd5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Anthony Albanese (@albomp)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The jeweller said Mr Albanese chose a classic style ring but noted the personal touches. </p> <p>“A round brilliant cut solitaire is one of the most classic styles of engagement ring and is consistently the top pick regardless of current trends - however the rose gold band is definitely a more personalised pick,” they said. </p> <p>“As far as pricing goes, assuming the diamond is a natural stone rather than lab grown it could be worth anywhere from $60,000 to $240,000.”</p> <p>Mr Albanese told Triple M radio on Friday that he enlisted the help of the local jeweller in his electorate, with his dog Toto in tow for moral support. </p> <p>“They made it – it’s bespoken. One-off,” the Prime Minister said. </p> <p>“They took different aspects and came back to us with different text messages, photos, and put it together – and Nic was just amazing, the artistry that’s it's got.”</p> <p>“I know what I like – but I don’t know what any of it’s called,” he said. "Toto was with me too.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Instagram</em></p>

Relationships

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All of the incredible royal jewels Queen Mary just inherited

<p>In a weekend filled with regal splendour and historic significance, Crown Princess Mary of Denmark not only <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/king-charles-message-to-mary-as-she-becomes-queen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ascended to the esteemed title of Queen</a> but also found herself adorned with the resplendent Danish Crown Jewels.</p> <p>The symbolic transfer of these extraordinary treasures, formerly belonging to Queen Margrethe, marks a momentous chapter in the Danish monarchy, and for Mary, it's a journey into the rich history of royal glamour.</p> <p>The Danish Crown Jewels, a collection with a lineage spanning centuries, tell a story of devotion, legacy and timeless elegance. Initiated by Queen Sophie Magdalene in the 1700s, each subsequent queen has contributed to and enhanced the collection, resulting in four dazzling "parures", or sets, each a testament to the enduring craftsmanship and artistry of Danish royalty.</p> <p><strong>The Emerald Set: A Gift of Love Across Generations</strong></p> <p>At the heart of the collection is the Emerald Set, a masterpiece featuring diadem, necklace, brooch and earrings adorned with emeralds and brilliant-cut diamonds. Originally gifted to Queen Sophie Magdalene in 1723 by King Christian VI, the set exudes a captivating blend of history and sophistication. As Queen Margrethe has demonstrated in the past, the pieces can be worn together or detached for a versatile, regal allure.</p> <p><strong>Pearl Ruby Set: A Timeless Elegance in Red and White</strong></p> <p>The Pearl Ruby Set, with its origins in the late 1600s, boasts a pearl necklace from Queen Charlotte Amalie, complemented by a matching pearl, ruby and diamond brooch and earrings. The ensemble, enhanced by Queen Caroline Amalie in the 1840s, mirrors the colours of the Danish flag. The set's adaptability, such as the pendant attachment to the pearl necklace, reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.</p> <p><strong>Brilliant Set: Diamonds that Sparkle with History</strong></p> <p>The Brilliant Set, featuring a brilliant-cut diamond necklace, floral bouquet brooch and earrings dating back to 1840, was the choice of Queen Margrethe for her son Frederik's wedding. This set, rich in symbolism, is a dazzling testament to the enduring sparkle of Danish royalty. Paired with the Floral Aigrette tiara, it adds a touch of timeless grace to any royal occasion.</p> <p><strong>Rose Cut Set: A Delicate Affair with Rose-Cut Diamonds</strong></p> <p>The Rose Cut Set, with necklaces and brooches fashioned from rose-cut diamonds, whispers tales of Princess Charlotte Amalie from centuries past. Worn sparingly by Queen Margrethe, it holds a unique place in the collection, and its rare appearances evoke a sense of antiquity and refinement.</p> <p>For Queen Mary, this accession to the Danish Crown Jewels is not just a privilege but a responsibility to carry forward the legacy of elegance and grace. These jewels, worn by every Queen of Denmark since the 1700s, are not merely adornments; they are a connection to the nation's history and a symbol of continuity.</p> <p>Reserved for special occasions, such as state visits and the New Year Reception, the Danish Crown Jewels will now find a new muse in Queen Mary. Ensconced within the walls of Rosenborg Castle when not in use, these jewels remain a source of pride for Denmark, a tangible link to its regal past.</p> <p>As Queen Mary steps into this new chapter of her royal journey, the Danish Crown Jewels will undoubtedly witness many more moments of joy, solemnity and regal radiance, reflecting the enduring spirit of a nation intertwined with its royal heritage.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram / Getty Images</em></p>

Money & Banking

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"Return our stolen diamonds!": Renewed pleas over the Great Star of Africa 

<p>In the wake of Queen Elizabeth II's passing, calls in South Africa are growing stronger for the British royal family to return the world’s largest known clear-cut diamond.</p> <p>Known as the “Great Star of Africa” or “Cullinan I”, the diamond is cut from a larger gem that was mined in South Africa in 1905. It was handed over to the British royal family by South Africa’s colonial authorities. At the moment, the diamond resides on a royal sceptre that belonged to Queen Elizabeth II.</p> <p>Demands for the return of the Great Star of Africa and other items have intensified since the Queen's death, as many South Africans view Britain's acquisition of the jewels as illegitimate.</p> <p>"The Cullinan Diamond must be returned to South Africa with immediate effect," activist Thanduxolo Sabelo has told local media, adding that: "The minerals of our country and other countries continue to benefit Britain at the expense of our people."</p> <p>According to the Royal Collection Trust, which oversees the royal collection of the British royal family, the Great Star of Africa was presented to King Edward VII in 1907, two years after its discovery in a private mine.</p> <p>Supporting the British monarchy's claim to the precious stone, the Royal Asscher Diamond Company has said that the gem was purchased by South Africa's Transvaal government (run by British rule) and presented to King Edward VII as a birthday gift.</p> <p>A University of South Africa professor of African politics, Everisto Benyera, rejects this narrative, telling CNN that "colonial transactions are illegitimate and immoral”.</p> <p>"Our narrative is that the whole Transvaal and Union of South Africa governments and the concomitant mining syndicates were illegal," Benyera has said, arguing that: "Receiving a stolen diamond does not exonerate the receiver. The Great Star is a blood diamond ... The private (mining) company, the Transvaal government, and the British Empire were part of a larger network of coloniality."</p> <p>According to the Royal Asscher, the Cullinan diamond was cut into nine large stones and 96 smaller pieces. The largest of these was named the Great Star of Africa by King Edward VII, who also named the second largest cut stone the Smaller Star of Africa.</p> <p>The larger diamond was set in the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross and the second cut stone was mounted in the Imperial Crown, which has been on display this week on the Queen's coffin.</p> <p>African countries continue to fight for the recovery of cultural artefacts that have been stolen by colonial troops, with more than 6000 people signing a petition for the return of the jewel so that it can be displayed in a South African museum.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

Legal

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Aussie miner discovers $102 million pink diamond

<p>A rare pure pink diamond has been unearthed in Angola, at the Lulo mine, and according to the Aussie operator of the mining site it is believed to be the largest discovered in 300 years.</p> <p>Named "The Lulo Rose", The 170 carat pink diamond was discovered in the country's diamond-rich northeast.</p> <p>The sparkling whopper is among the largest pink diamonds ever found, the Lucapa Diamond Company said in a statement.</p> <p>The “historic” find of the Type IIa diamond is one of the rarest and purest forms of natural stones and was welcomed by the Angolan government, which is also a partner in the mine.</p> <p>“This record and spectacular pink diamond recovered from Lulo continues to showcase Angola as an important player on the world stage,” Angola’s Mineral Resources Minister Diamantino Azevedo said.</p> <p>The diamond will be sold at international tender, likely at a dazzling price. Although the precious jewel would have to be cut and polished to reveal its true value, the process could potentially see the stone lose 50% of its weight.</p> <p>Similar pink diamonds have sold for record-breaking prices.</p> <p>The 59.6 carat Pink Star was sold at a Hong Kong auction for US $71.2 million (AUD $102.5 million). It remains the most expensive diamond in the world.</p> <p><em>Image: <span style="font-size: 15px; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Lucapa Diamond Company Limited </span></em></p>

Money & Banking

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Melissa Caddick’s husband claims millions in jewels, cars, homes and assets

<p>Melissa Caddick’s husband, Anthony Koletti, has lodged a claim indicating that he is entitled to a significant share of the multi-million dollars worth of cars, houses, artworks and jewellery left by the missing Sydney woman.</p> <p>After it was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/melissa-caddick-s-hidden-millions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">revealed</a> that Caddick had misappropriated $25 million of investors' funds in a Ponzi scheme via her company Maliver Pty Ltd, court proceedings were begun in November 2020 by the corporate watchdog in order to return the vast amounts of swindled money to investors. These proceedings remain underway.</p> <p>Mr Koletti has now filed a statement in Federal Court as an interested party, claiming that he is entitled to matrimonial property including $2 million of clothes and jewellery, $7 million worth of shares, proceeds from $360,000 of cars that have been sold, as well as two homes in the multi-million dollar price range.</p> <p>Mr Koletti also claims entitlement to personal property that includes five valuable John Olsen paintings, a Louis Vuitton watch, a Gucci wedding dress and several more pricey items of white-gold jewellery – including a $33,960 diamond ring set by Sydney fine jewellery designer Canturi and his own $26,500 wedding band.</p> <p>According to court documents, Mr Koletti’s claim was based on his “financial and non-financial contributions” to the relationship since his December 2013 marriage to Caddick.</p> <p>Mr Koletti’s basis for the claims rest with the fact that he used up almost all of his income and assets to support Caddick and her son during their marriage, and that furthermore that since Caddick’s disappearance he has personally paid around $500 a week to care for her child.</p> <p>The claim went on to state that “due to the extensive media coverage relating to the Defendant’s disappearance, the time taken by legal proceedings and Mr Koletti’s grief, he has not been able to secure gainful employment in his usual trade other than casual hairdressing services and some income from <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/melissa-caddick-s-husband-releases-album-about-her-disappearance" target="_blank" rel="noopener">his music</a>.” </p> <p>Mr Koletti’s court filing comes ahead of an inquest set for September, which will further probe the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/wild-theories-over-melissa-caddick-disappearance" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mysterious disappearance</a> of Caddick.</p> <p><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

News

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Jewellery belonging to royal families hits the auction market

<p>A series of beautiful and historically-important jewels are set to hit the auction market next week. </p> <p>They are expected to sell for record-breaking prices, as they are all linked to royalty throughout the world, and spanning hundreds of years. </p> <p>The collection includes a set of sapphire jewels once owned by a member of Russia's ill-fated Romanov dynasty, diamond bracelets from Marie Antoinette's collection and a bangle given to the Duchess of Windsor as an anniversary present from her husband. </p> <p><span>Two tiaras once owned by Empress Joséphine of France are also included in the sale, along with tiaras owned by other European royals. </span></p> <p><span>Jewels by Bulgari, Harry Winston, Van Cleef &amp; Arpels and Cartier are also among the spectacularly glitzy collection. </span></p> <p><span>Auction houses Christie's and Sotheby's are auctioning off the items next week to prospective buyers, as visitors try to outbid their chances of owning a </span>piece of history. </p> <p>The big ticket item at the Christie's auction, happening on November 9th in Geneva, is a pair of diamond bracelets that belonged to the last queen of France. </p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845362/marie-antoinette-jewels.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/528194fee718455bbae20343be1d372e" /></p> <p><em>Image credits: Christie's</em></p> <p>A blue velvet box, labeled 'bracelets off Queen Marie Antoinette', houses <span>the double bracelets, each composed of three strands of diamonds and a large barrette clasp, for a total of 112 diamonds.</span></p> <p>Now in the possession of a European royal family, the bracelets are said to sell for at $3 million. </p> <p><span>"To find jewels with over 200 years of French royal history is truly something that collectors and passionate jewellery people from all over the world will be keeping an eye on," Max Fawcett, head of Christie's jewellery department in Geneva, said.</span></p> <p><span>Also being auctioned at Christie's is a ruby and diamond bangle owned by Wallis Simpson. </span></p> <p><span><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845363/ruby.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/9b7a68eaa4d7489b90b0114a72e8a487" /></span></p> <p><em>Image credit: Christie's</em></p> <p><span>The former King Edward VIII ordered the Cartier bracelet for his American wife on their first wedding anniversary in 1938 after abdicating the throne.</span></p> <p><span>The jewellery is expected to sell for close to $3 million. </span></p> <p><span>The bangle features an inscription that reads, "For our first anniversary of June third".</span></p> <p><span>Featured at the Sotheby's Magnificent Jewels and Noble Jewels sale is a sapphire and diamond brooch and matching ear-clips once owned by the Romanov dynasty of Russia.</span></p> <p><span>They are from the collection of Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna, the cousin of Tsar Nicholas II. </span></p> <p><span>With a range of other royal jewels up for auction, the auction houses in Geneva are expecting a bidding war that will result in millions of dollars of </span>profit. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Sotheby's / Christie's</em></p>

Money & Banking

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"Lost a jewel": Olympic runner found stabbed in her home

<p dir="ltr">Kenyan long-distance runner Agnes Tirop was found dead in her home at the age of 25, according to a statement released by Athletics Kenya on Wednesday.</p> <p dir="ltr">She was found with stab wounds in her abdomen, and her husband was missing. Athletics Kenya said it was still working to unearth more details surrounding her death.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/ncmzF6bu6Q">pic.twitter.com/ncmzF6bu6Q</a></p> — Athletics Kenya (@athletics_kenya) <a href="https://twitter.com/athletics_kenya/status/1448245193493385217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The athlete won bronze in the 10,000m at the 2017 and 2019 World Championships, and finished 4th in the 5000m at the Tokyo Olympic Games earlier this year.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tirop made history last month by shaving 28 seconds off the long-standing, women-only world record for 10,000m at the Adizero Road to Records event in Germany. She finished in 30:01, breaking the previous record of 30:29 which had been set by Moroccan Asmae Leghzaoui in 2002.</p> <p dir="ltr">Following the win, Agnes told reporters, “I’m so happy to have broken the world record. I felt the pace was good. The course was very good, too.”</p> <p dir="ltr">At the 2015 IAAF World Cross Country Championships, she became the second-youngest ever gold medallist in the women’s race, after South African athlete Zola Budd.</p> <p dir="ltr">Athletics Kenya said the country had “lost a jewel who was one of the fastest-rising athletics giants on the international stage, thanks to her eye-catching performances.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta also paid tribute, saying, “It is unsettling, utterly unfortunate and very sad that we’ve lost a young and promising athlete who, at a young age of 25 years, she had brought our country so much glory through her exploits on the global athletics stage including in this year’s 2020 Tokyo Olympics where she was part of the Kenyan team in Japan.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Mustafa Abumunes/AFP via Getty Images</em></p>

News

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New Caledonia: The jewel of the Pacific

<div class="col-md-8"> <div class="entry-content"> <div class="vc_row wpb_row vc_row-fluid"> <div class="wpb_column vc_column_container vc_col-sm-12"> <div class="vc_column-inner "> <div class="wpb_wrapper"> <div class="wpb_text_column wpb_content_element "> <div class="wpb_wrapper"> <p>Music blares. Passengers line the bars. The party has begun. The ship’s horn sounds out its guttural call across Sydney Harbour, surely one of the most effective advertising sounds ever conceived. Another ship is leaving Circular Quay bound for the South Pacific.</p> <p>As thrilling as it is to be drinking the cocktail of the day out of a large green plastic fish as we sail away, I am looking forward to reaching New Caledonia, where we have three ports-of-call. Sometimes referred to as the Jewel of the Pacific – possibly by the same advertising types who invented the ship’s horn – the French overseas territory promises a litany of cultural and natural thrills, served up with foie gras and escargot. New Caledonia is also home to the largest lagoon in the world and has a rich cultural and gastronomic diversity, mostly based on islander and French philosophies.</p> <p class=""><span>I am aboard Carnival Spirit but this could be any one of the fabulous Australia-based cruise ships that ply their trade throughout the South Pacific in the southern summer months. After a couple of days of excellent food and both organised and organic fun, we reach the islands Captain James Cook named in 1774, as the northeast of the main island – Grande Terre – reminded him of Scotland. France took possession in 1853 and New Caledonia was, in turn, a penal colony, nickel mine and an allied naval base in the South Pacific during WWII. Indigenous Melanesian Kanaks suffered like all indigenous victims of colonisation, but still represent around 40% of the population.</span></p> <p>One prominent Kanak (an indigenous Melanesian inhabitant of New Caledonia), Jean-Marie Tjibaou, a leader of the Kanak independence movement who was assassinated in 1989, is immortalised at the eponymous cultural centre in the capital Nouméa. The building was designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano and features ten conical pavilions based on traditional Kanak huts. It houses artefacts, working art studios, exhibitions and performances, and is a must-see.</p> <p>Other notable landmarks in Nouméa include Place des Cocotiers (Coconut Square), which is home to old flame trees and lush tropical gardens, Parc Forestier zoological and botanical gardens, Anse Vata beach and Mount Ouen Toro lookout, which is the place to be at sunset.</p> <p>Cruise ships typically offer a range of shore excursions for each port-of-call and most New Caledonian outings showcase the enchanting islands. Each tropical sandy or coral isle has its own characteristics and charms, and many come with turtles.</p> <p class=""><span>From Kanumera Bay on the Isle of Pines we board a high-powered speedboat and zoom along the coast to Turtle Bay. The thrust of the speedboat’s dual outboards is the first thrill of the day and the boat slows as we enter Turtle Bay. One of our guides stands at the bow surveying the calm blue like a monarch. He knows this area like the inside of his Oakley sunglasses. With a flash of electric blue board shorts he dives into the pellucid water and gently fetches up a large sea turtle. The kids go nuts and cameras click furiously. Once the turtle is settled in his gentle embrace, the guide invites us to join him and his friend in the warm water. He assures us the reptile is comfortable with the attention. He’s about 50 years old and has done this many times before. We bob around with our turtle for about half an hour, taking selfies and enjoying his slimy sleekness. The excursion then heads to the pristine and deserted Brush Island, where we spend an hour swimming, walking hand-in-hand and sipping Champagne.</span><span></span></p> <p class=""><span>Another turtle treat is Amedee Island, 18 kilometres south of Noumea. A bumpy ferry ride is rewarded with a glass-bottom boat tour across the seagrass, where turtles like to hang out. We snorkel over the coral reef and find yet more turtles, following a particularly sociable one for twenty minutes as he glides and swoops through the impossibly clear shallows. Amadee also has an old lighthouse to explore and puts on an excellent buffet lunch, accompanied by a band and dancers.</span></p> <p>Our outing to the island of Maré is a simple bus transfer to Yejele Beach, an unspoilt stretch of coastline. Unspoilt, that is, until it is invaded by cruise ship passengers. It’s still very nice, mind you, and the kids love it because there’s loads of other kid to play with. Seclusion is still possible if you are prepared to walk a bit, and the snorkelling is excellent. Shops lining the road along the beach do a roaring trade, mostly knocking out fast food, drinks and stuff they bought earlier at the supermarket, although there are a few interesting crafts stalls.</p> <p>Lifou, the largest of the coral atolls known as the Loyalty Islands, features coves, limestone caves, grottos and compressed coral cliffs. Excursions often take in a range of this stunning scenery, as well as a Melanesian cultural encounter, the vanilla plantation and of course, more beaches. Jinek Bay Marine Reserve is so popular numbers are now restricted to preserve the delicate ecology. </p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Written by Mal Chenu. Republished with permission by <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/new-caledonia-the-jewel-of-the-pacific/">MyDiscoveries.</a></em></p>

Cruising

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Duchess Meghan dazzles in Princess Diana’s jewels on royal tour

<p>Over the course of Prince Harry and Meghan’s 16-day royal tour, the Duchess of Sussex has been impressing onlookers with her sensational frocks and the regal jewels she wears to match.</p> <p>Now, the 37-year-old has dipped into the jewellery collection of Princess Diana for the second time on this trip.</p> <p>During the couple’s first official engagement in Tonga, Meghan wore her late mother-in-law’s ring to an evening reception and dinner at Tonga’s royal palace.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 259.11687170474517px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7821624/image_.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f17dec79b3ed47749b8a4886362c60e3" /></p> <p>The pregnant Duchess wore a radiant floor-length white gown by designer Theia with Diana’s aquamarine ring that she was also seen wearing for her royal wedding reception.</p> <p>Meghan also wore her favourite Aquazzura Deneuve heels with a Givenchy clutch and earrings by Birks.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 273.4375px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7821623/image_.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/1926dc1c204d47b48eb88bd756959924" /></p> <p>Prince Harry and Meghan looked elegant as they enjoyed a private audience with His Majesty Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau-u.</p> <p>When the Duke and Duchess kickstarted their first official day of engagements in Sydney, Meghan wore butterfly earrings and a matching bracelet previously owned by the People’s Princess.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghan</a> wearing Princess Diana’s gold and diamond butterfly earrings and bracelet on her first day of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalTourAustralia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalTourAustralia</a> <a href="https://t.co/2InKbM8dHW">pic.twitter.com/2InKbM8dHW</a></p> — Emily Andrews (@byEmilyAndrews) <a href="https://twitter.com/byEmilyAndrews/status/1051992918641205248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>During her trip, Meghan has also worn a white gold diamond bracelet that Prince Charles gifted her as a wedding present.</p> <p>The Cartier diamond tennis bracelet, which is set with 52 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 4.68 carats, is worth $40,000.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7821621/image_.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/8d6495c5d7ba4dc2a815b1dc26f624ae" /></p> <p>What has been your favourite Duchess Meghan outfit during this royal tour? Let us know in the comments below.</p>

Beauty & Style

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Why Princess Diana’s jewellery might start appearing in public more

<p>When the new Duchess of Sussex stepped out of Windsor Castle in her wedding reception frock, royal fans were quick to notice the dazzling aquamarine ring she had adorned on her finger.</p> <p>Now that Meghan Markle is officially a royal and part of the family, precious jewels that once belonged to Prince Harry’s mother, Princess Diana, may start to come out of the vault on a more regular basis, according to jewellery expert Ella Kay, from The Court Jeweler.</p> <p>Princess Diana’s precious collection – which includes dazzling diamonds and enormous sapphires – has remained more or less hidden in the years since her tragic death in 1997.</p> <p>However, Ella predicts that Prince Harry’s newly married status may result in the reappearance of many of his mother’s beloved jewels – which have not been seen in public for decades – not only on his new wife Meghan, but also on his sister-in-law Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge.</p> <p>“The royal wills are all sealed,” Ella explained to <a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/fashion/a20976927/princess-diana-jewelry/">GoodHousekeeping.com</a>. “They’re not made public, so we don’t know who exactly got what or what happened to it,” referring to Princess Diana’s estate upon her death 20 years ago.</p> <p>That said, some sentimental jewellery pieces – such as Duchess Kate’s sapphire engagement ring and the diamond’s in Duchess Meghan’s engagement ring – hint that Princess Diana’s sons William and Harry were a part of a special plan when it came to sharing her estate.</p> <p>"It wouldn't surprise me if they kept back the lion's share of jewellery until both of the princes were married so that they could split it," Ella added.</p> <p>"Harry hadn't needed it so far but I can imagine them saying, 'We don't want Kate to start wearing it all,' because there would be nothing left [for Harry's wife]."</p> <p>While some of Princess Diana’s beloved jewellery has already made a public appearance on Kate and Meghan – including a pair of drop pearl earrings Kate wore back in January – there is one item in particular Ella is hoping makes its public debut again.</p> <p>"The one that I cannot wait to see back — or that I'm hoping will be worn — is a sapphire cluster with diamonds all around it like Kate's engagement ring, but it's the size of an egg," she says. "The Queen Mother gave it to [Princess Diana] as a wedding gift. It was originally a brooch, but Diana set it in a pearl choker."</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery above to see some of the precious jewels once owned by Princess Diana that both Meghan and Kate have been seen wearing. </p>

Beauty & Style

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Roast chicken with jewelled burghul and tahini yogurt

<p>Inject a little aroma into a traditional dish with this fragrant roast chicken, with jewelled burghul and tahini yogurt. It could be a new family dinner staple.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Ingredients:</span></strong></p> <ul> <li>1 tablespoon ground cinnamon</li> <li>2 tablespoons cumin seeds, ground</li> <li>2 tablespoons coriander seeds, ground</li> <li>2 tablespoons fennel seeds, ground</li> <li>4 tablespoons sesame seeds</li> <li>4 tablespoons sea salt flakes</li> <li>Olive oil, for drizzling</li> <li>10 chicken breast fillets, skin on</li> </ul> <p><em>Jewelled burghul salad</em></p> <ul> <li>600g coarse burghul, rinsed in cold water</li> <li>1L water</li> <li>400g pomegranate arils (seeds)</li> <li>600g cucumber, deeseeded and finely chopped</li> <li>170g pistachio nuts, roughly chopped</li> <li>70g fresh mint leaves, torn</li> <li>70g fresh coriander leaves, torn</li> <li>175ml extra virgin olive oil</li> <li>100ml lemon juice</li> <li>2 teaspoons finely grated lemon rind</li> <li>60ml honey</li> <li>1 clove garlic, crushed</li> <li>salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste</li> </ul> <p><em>Tahini yogurt</em></p> <ul> <li>2kg natural yogurt</li> <li>80g tahini</li> </ul> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Method:</span></strong></p> <ol> <li>For chicken: combine spices, salt and sesame in a small frypan and toast until fragrant. Spread onto a flat tray. Lightly coat chicken in olive oil and press into the spices to thickly coat.</li> <li>Heat olive oil in a large frying pan until hot, sear chicken skin side down until deep golden, turn and sear until golden, transfer to a lined baking tray and roast at 180C for 10-15 minutes or until crisp and just cooked through. Rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing diagonally into thick slices.</li> <li>For jewelled burghul, place water and burghul in a saucepan, cover, bring to the boil, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Turn off heat and steam for 5 minutes. Remove to a bowl and cool.</li> <li>Stir pomegranate, cucumber, nuts and into the burghul. Combine oil, lemon juice and rind, honey and garlic, season to taste. Toss into the burghul until well coated. Refrigerate until required and stir through herbs just before serving.</li> <li>For Tahini yogurt, combine yogurt and tahini in a small bowl until smooth.</li> <li>Arrange burghul on a large platter or serving board, arrange sliced chicken along the platter and drizzle with yogurt.</li> </ol> <p>What’s your favourite Sunday roast? Let us know in the comments below.</p> <p>Recipe courtesy of Legendairy. <a href="http://www.legendairy.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Visit their site</strong></span></a> for more delicious food ideas.</p> <p><strong><em>Have you ordered your copy of the Over60 cookbook, The Way Mum Made It, yet? Featuring 175 delicious tried-and-true recipes from you, the Over60 community, and your favourites that have appeared on the Over60 website, <a href="https://shop.abc.net.au/products/way-mum-made-it-pbk" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">head to the abcshop.com.au to order your copy now</span></a>.</em></strong></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2016/05/chicken-and-vegetable-winter-pie/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chicken and vegetable winter pie</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2016/05/buttermilk-popcorn-chicken/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Buttermilk popcorn chicken</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2016/05/chicken-roasted-with-tomatoes-eggplant-and-chickpeas/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Chicken roasted with tomatoes, eggplant and chickpeas</span></em></strong></a></p>

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