diamonds formed under extreme heat & pressure, often contain unique birthmarks / flaws, either internal (inclusions) or external (blemishes).
GIA clarity scale contains 11 grades to grade on natural flaws on diamond.
most diamonds fall into VS (very slightly) / SI (slightly included)
GIA grading system considered size, nature, position, quantity of clarify characteristics visible under 10x magnfication
Clarity grading (under 10x magnification): -Flawless (FL) - No inclusions or blemishes are visible -Internally Flawless (IF) - No inclusions and only blemishes are visible -Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2) - Inclusions are difficult to see -Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2) - Inclusions are minor and range from difficult to somewhat easy to see -Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2) - Inclusions are noticeable -Included (I1, I2, and I3) - Inclusions are obvious and may affect transparency and brilliance
rough diamond must accompanied by government-validated certificate stating that they're non-conflict diamond.
conflict diamonds area diamonds illegally traded to fund conflicts, civil war & human rights abuses.
Bvlgari only buys polished diamonds & with selected diamond suppliers based in countries that adhere to Kimberly Process.
Bvlgari is certified member of Council for Responsible Jewellery Practice (CRJP) which conforms for responsible ethical, social & environmental practice throughout the diamond and gold jewellery supply chain, from mining to retail.
Bvlgari bridal series
allow to choose 4Cs, GIA certificate only available for 0.3 carats above
Bvlgari solitaire only available in specific outlet. Customization only available for 2-3 carats above, subject to diamond availability & limited to specific jewelry design.
For certain iconic design, Bvlgari will limit to specific carat size to retain the exquisite aesthetic value.
jewelry price will be adjusted yearly (Typically on March)
Italian luxury brand founded in Rome in 1884, reputable Italian craftsmanship for jewellery creation.
the Bvlgari store on Via Condotti, Rome is one of the favourite meeting places for movie stars and socialites
Bvlgari creations have starred so far in more than 40 films including Mission Impossible starring Tom Cruise.
Bvlgari pieces have been walked down red carpets at the Academy Awards, Golden Globes and film festivals from Cannes to Venice & worn by Lady gaga, Dua lipa, Alicia key and etc.
Bvlgari has always found a favored source of inspiration in the monuments and architectural treasures of the Eternal City, Rome. Beauties of Rome monuments have been translated into Bvlgari’s jewellery codes, indelibly shaping the Brand identity.
B.zero1 collection, introduced in 1999 embedded with strong circular design & Italian heritage that's inspired by Rome’s magnificent Colosseum.
-the information provided is based on personal experiences & reference materials Credits :
Had conference with professional dietitian from one of the renowned local private hospital regarding maintaining healthy lifestyle during corona outbreak & how to maintain good immunity. Some interesting take away:
have sufficient vitamin C & zinc to maintain good immunity.
minimise high sodium food like instant noodles & canned food. -instant noodles & canned food wiht high sodium can elevate blood pressure. -Try to prepare simple meal with fresh ingredients.
maintain balance diet with plenty of immune boosting food to maintain health. -use healthy meal plate as guide (1/2 vegetables, 1/4 meat &others , 1/4 grains)
go for healthier options like lean meat, brown rice, whole grain bun whole grain noodles ,more vege. -chicken rice: lean meat,brown rice,more vegetables. (1/2 vegetables, 1/4 meat , 1/4 rice) -wonton mee: wholegrain noodles, more vege -mixed rice: 2 vegetables, 1 meat/tofu/egg, brown rice -burger: wholemeal bun, lean meat, swap fries with salad.
avoid excessive caffeine. -caffeinated drinks: coffee, tea, chocolate drink, energy drink -can alleviate feeling of restless, anxious, irritable -limit the intake to not more than 2 cups /day
1 glass of trendy dalgona coffee ~300 calories = 1 standard balance meal. The sugar content is very high. It’s definitely ok to try but try to share your coffee to reduce consumption.
Food Safety Precaution: -leftover good could harbor bacteria & unsafe. -2hours rules: food in room temperature for more than 2 hours should be discarded. -do not keep leftover food in fridge >3 days.
small, frequent & regular meal time to prevent overeating. -stick to regular meal pattern -small frequent meal every 4 hours to prevent overeating
get enough sleep. -sufficient good quality sleep -boost effectiveness of T cell (immune cell) -at least 7-8hrs/day
exercise. -mood boosting & immune boosting -stretching, yoga / exercise with streaming short workout video at home to stay active
stay mentally strong & maintain positive thinking. -read from credible sources to avoid misinformation & create unnecessary anxiety
Vitamin C
antioxidant, limit inflammation and tissue damage associated with immune response
Boost collagen production for healthy skin, boost activity phagocytes
inadequate intakes of essential minerals & vitamins should be avoided.
Megadose supplements should be avoided, can be harmful sometimes.
I actually still prefer advises from professional medical doctors & dietitians. They’re more likely to portray overall picture about health including nutrients, lifestyle, sleep cycle, hormonal balance, immunity, body function, physical & mental health and with scientific data. The wellness doctor once told me healthy muscular figure doesn’t mean healthy inside. It’s not just about how fit u look, you’ve got to see overall picture. Credits: Parkway Pantai
Do you know if you start a conversation in French, the French are more likely to answer your questions in English ?
This is also one of the tips to travel in France.
Many claim that the French do not speak English and finding someone who speaks decent English in France is mission impossible. This stereotype is not true.
It's a myth the French won't speak English. English is the standard language of tourism in Europe.
take the time to learn a few words. A simple bonjour instead of hello can considerably change the way people interact with you.
Understand their culture, shows people you care about their culture & with genuine interest in the country. people will more likely to help you, and make your time in their country extraordinary.
Note: The French don't like it when you start the conversation with English. Don't know and don't want to speak to you are two different story and people usually misunderstood that. There's always unwritten rules, so be open minded to understand, learn and respect their culture.
Basic French for communication
Je m'appelle (name). J'habite a (place)Ca va? ca va = my name is (name) live in (place). hello / good? good
Andrew Lloyd Webber's "The Phantom of the Opera," staged at London's Royal Albert Hall in 2011, available to stream free on YouTube until 20 April 20 for covid 19 fund raising.
The free musical is available on Webber's "The Shows Must Go On" YouTube channel. Viewers are invited to donate to The Actors Fund, (Fund raising for Covid-19 Emergency Relief).
'The Shows Must Go On' by Universal is about musicals going from stage to screen. Will show Andrew Webber's work every Friday for coming few weeks during covid-19.
"The Phantom of the Opera," at Royal Albert Hall (2011):
in celebration of 25th anniversary of Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera.
Cameron Mackintosh (British theatrical producer and theatre owner notable for his association with many commercially successful musicals) produced a unique, spectacular staging of musical on a scale which had never seen before.
Inspired by the original staging by Hal Prince & Gillian Lynne.
The lavish, fully staged production set in the scumptous Victorian splendour of London's legendary Royal Albert Hall features a cast of orchestra of over 200 & special guests.
"The Phantom of the Opera" song was performed by Sarah Brightman in closing of the musical theater .
Definitely something worth to watch, the gigantic chandelier with fireworks at the opening, the organs and props are extremely impressive.
The Synopsis on wikipedia about the story is pretty much similar to the plot in the musical show and helps you to understand the stories better if u miss any part.
Academy Awards & Golden Globes, nomination for Best Original Song: "Learn to Be Lonely" from the 2004 motion picture The Phantom of the Opera
Tony Awards 1988, Best Musical for The Phantom of the Opera
Olivier Awards 1986, Best Musical for The Phantom of the Opera
1988: Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Orchestrations for The Phantom of the Opera.
Background: Andrew Lloyd Webber
English composer, impresario of musical theatre
"the most commercially successful composer in history" - The New York Times
"fifth most powerful person in British culture" in 2008 -Daily Telegraph
the Really Useful Group (His company), one of the largest theatre operators in London. Producers in several parts of the UK have staged productions, including national tours, of the Lloyd Webber musicals under licence from the Really Useful Group.
Sunday Times Rich List 2006 ranked him the 87th-richest man in Britain with an estimated fortune of £700 million.
increased to £750 million in 2007, publication ranked him 101st in 2008.
The Sunday Times Rich List of 2019 saw him ranked the richest musician in the UK (overtaking Paul McCartney) with a fortune of £820 million.
Awards:
knighthood in 1992, peerage from Queen Elizabeth II for services to the Arts, six Tonys, three Grammys (as well as the Grammy Legend Award), an Academy Award, fourteen Ivor Novello Awards, seven Olivier Awards, a Golden Globe, a Brit Award, the 2006 Kennedy Center Honors, the 2008 Classic Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music, and an Emmy Award.
one of fifteen people to have won an Oscar, an Emmy, a Grammy, and a Tony.
has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is an inductee into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, and is a fellow of the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors
Smell fresh, clean, elegant and classy. Better choice compare to Gucci Guilty Black. Good gift choice for boyfriend.
Composition:
Citrus, ambery Cedar, TonkaBean and Vanilla.
Product Award:
Winner of Allure magazine's 'Best of Beauty' Award for Best Men's Scent, 2018
2019 Fifi Awards: Fragrance of the Year-Men's Luxury and Media Campaign of the Year-Men's.
Way to use:
Eau de parfum is sprayed in a cloud inside clothing or the skin.
Bf has the habit of spraying on his clothes.
Available type:
Eau de Toilette (EDT): lightest & most relaxed fragrance.
Eau de Parfum (EDP): closest in strength & character to the parfum form.
Parfum: most powerful, concentrated & long-lasting form of fragrance.
Available in 3 sizes:
50ml, 100ml , 150ml
Where to buy:
Any Chanel official boutique
Note:
try not to buy fake perfume. May contain chemical ingredients which might cause respiratory & skin problems. Even buying original, my bf still worries & only spray on shirt.
Original Price :
(2019), ~RM 600++
Purchased from Chanel boutique, Malaysia. Price may varies, original luxury boutique will typically adjust price from time to time.
Chanel Background:
Luxury fashion house founded by Coco Chanel , headquaters in Paris, France.
one of the most influential luxury designer brands which focus on high fashion, ready-made clothes, luxury products, and accessories.
Chanel de Bleu created by Jacques Polge, French perfumer, Head Perfumer at Les Parfums Chanel. (Chanel's fragrance creator of 35 years). Created every Chanel fragrance launched since 1978, including Coco, Coco Mademoiselle, Allure, Chance, Chanel de Bleu and Chanel No.5 Eau Premiere
KATE SPADE New York - Cameron candace satchel hand bag- PXRU5931
Q: Why Kate Spade?
Because their saffiano leather is very durable
Recommended? : Yes
Cameron candace satchel, black used to be the signature design that rarely have discount. Currently they've changed top management and stop the signature design and move to another type of leather coated with anti scratch coating. But still this will always be one of my favorite & one of the most practical & durable handbag over time.
The saffiano leather is suitable for rough usage, scratch-proof and doesn't peel like soft leather. Bought a mini version 2 years back, often use it and still in good condition. Just the mini one is not so practical if you've many things to bring.
durable, classy, elegant & practical design which comes in different color. The large version has very large space & suitable to use as office bag. I've been putting all the important documents / receipts in the front compartment when we manage our new house renovation, the hard leather doesn't change shape easily and ensure the papers put in the bag are in good condition & not wrinkled .
I love practical, quality & durable bag, this is one of my favorite . If you still see this design in the market just buy. It's just an entry level affordable luxury brand but it's worth the money for day to day use. Some higher level luxury goods costs more but doesn't provide the practical durability that you need for day to day use. You need extra care for the leather during use which i don't think is practical if you just need a bag to go hawker stall for a delicious local meal. Use a more durable handbag so that you have less worry on the stain.
If there's stain, you can bring your handbag for cleaning in any outlet like Pavillion KL, Gurney Paragon, Queensbay Penang. They'll clean it with leather solution and is FOC.
Key Features:
Classic & functional bag
crosshatched leather with matching trim
book stripe printed on poly twill lining
14 karat gold plated hardware
saffiano leather , tough to break/ get dirty,water-resistant & scratch-proof (more durable)
Luggage tag bag charm with hardware accent
Slim front pocket, 3-pocket interior.
Rolled handles and optional, adjustable shoulder strap. Dust bag included.
Available in varieties of colors & 3 sizes (mini, medium, large).
Retail Boutique vs Factory Outlet: Material Quality Difference
Boutiques material are high-quality leather.
Outlet material will be lighter, thinner, weaker and less durable with lower grade leather.
Price difference
Boutique price are higher even after discount.
Outlet can be almost half of the price
Design difference
Boutique 14-karat gold Kate Spade charm / hardware are available. Follow standard signature design. Luggage tag bag charm with hardware accent.
Outlet 14-karat gold Kate Spade charm / hardware are removed. Slightly different design in handles, Luggage tag bag charm without hardware accent.
Original Price :
(2019), RM1,850 (Original boutique) - Candace Large
(2017), RM1,700 (Original boutique) - Candace Mini
Kate Spades Background:
American luxury fashion design house founded in 1993, headquarters in New York, United States.
Known competitors of Michael Kors
Company was purchased by Tapestry, Inc. formerly known as Coach.
Luxury can be divided into levels: -Entry level luxury / affordable luxury: Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Coach -Moderate luxury / accessible core: Ralph Lauren -Premium core: Louis Vuitton, Chanel
The categories of luxury are determined by their target demographic, product price points, scarcity and exclusivity.
-the information provided is based on personal experiences & reference materials during purchase
Alcohol-based hand sanitisers -contain varying amounts and types of alcohol, often between 60% and 95% and usually isopropyl alcohol, ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or n-propanol. -Alcohol able to kill most germs including MRSA and E coli, they’re also effective against many viruses, including the influenza A virus, rhinovirus, hepatitis A virus, HIV, and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). -below 60% alcohol content, the effectiveness drops very dramatically.
Alcohol-free hand sanitisers -contain quarternary ammonium compounds (usually benzalkonium chloride) instead of alcohol. -reduce microbes but are less effective than alcohol.
Note:
CDC requirement for coronavirus: -hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. -consider alcohol-based wipes or spray containing at least 70% alcohol to clean and disinfect surface.
In simple words, alcohol free hand sanitizer and unclear alcohol % hand sanitizer just doesn't serve the intended purpose. It makes you personally feel safe but put you in risk. Just wash hands for at least 20 seconds if you can't find a good hand sanitizer.
CDC background
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Leading national public health institute of the United States.
United States federal agency responsible to protect public health and safety through control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability in US and internationally.
The health care information on CDC is reliable and highly recommended by medical doctors. It's actually recommended by my specialist wellness doctor from famous private hospital.
Publishing division of the Harvard Medical School of Harvard University.
Havard University , Private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Ranked as the world's top university every year since it was released.
Publish latest health information that is authoritative, trustworthy, and accessible with expertise of the 10,000+ faculty physicians at Harvard Medical School.
Publishing content is made available to public through syndicated daily newspaper column and licensing arrangements with a wide range of public and corporate websites.
Harvard Medical School was founded in 1782 and encompasses 18 affiliated hospitals with more than 11,000 members of the faculty, including more than 10,000 clinical physicians.
-the information provided is based on personal experiences & worthy information from reference materials during purchase. Do get professional advice for best practice.
Hand sanitizer gel & spray Left: 66% alochol , Right: unspecified alcohol %
UK disinfection wipes with DGHM/VAH approved for medical device. 70% alcohol (medical grade)
UK disinfection wipes (200pcs/bottle) 70% alcohol (medical grade)
Hand sanitizer gel 70% alcohol When i return to pharmacy to buy more, all the stock was reserved by doctors. It’s a bit hard to get branded certified hand sanitizer at this time but at least the hand sanitizer is meeting the minimum CDC requirement with at least 60% alcohol
Hand sanitizer liquid (require to pour into spray bottle) & Pharmacist recommended 75% alcohol (medical grade)
Disinfectant Surface Spray 60% alcohol only spray at appropriate surface. don’t just spray blindly and spoil your item.
Q: What type of mask is effective for Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) ?
Surgical mask and N95 respirators.
N95 respirators offer higher level protection
WHO recommends N95, FFP2, or equivalent respirator.
CDC recommends NIOSH-certified disposable N95
Typically N95 recommended for healthcare workers for airborne precaution and should be used during be used during aerosol generating procedures due to tight fitting design.
Mask type and comparison Anti virus & Anti bacteria function: N95>Surgical mask>FFP1>active carbon mask> fabric mask > sponge mask
Surgical mask (strongest protection)
N95 respirator (medical use)
FFP1 (isolate suspended particles)
Active carbon mask (unpleasant smell or surrounding)
Fabric mask (keep warm in cold weather)
Sponge mask (aesthetic use, barely any protection function)
Note: Homemade DIY fabric mask is not able to protect from infections disease and may cause risk of higher infection. Refer to Public Heath Malaysia for further explanations.
Mask type and function
Difference between surgical mask and N95 respirator, CDC & Harvard health.
Be cautious on counterfeit N95 mask
CDC web page provides a table of NIOSH-approved N95 respirators, listed alphabetically by manufacturer, model number / product line. Not all product and model qualified for N95 function.
Qualified N95 mask is approved by National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
Malaysia qualified N95 masks will have JKKP approved label .
JKKP (Jabatan Keselamatan dan Kesihatan Pekerjaan) also known as Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).
Fullfill requirement of European Standard (EN 149:2001) & FFR classification .
EN 149 European standard for face pieces - filtering halfmasks to protect against particles
According to OSHA, The use of counterfeit or altered respirators can jeopardize worker health and safety. there is no way of knowing whether these products or parts meet the stringent testing and quality assurance requirements of NIOSH and will provide workers with the expected level of protection.
counterfeit mask , CDC
counterfeit mask , CDC
Sample of JKKP approved N95 mask - supplied by subsidiary of Sunway Group .
Be cautious on counterfeit surgical mask
According to OSHA, only surgical masks that are regulated by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are legally marketed in the United Stated and have been tested for their ability to resist blood and body fluids.
Note: -Personally i find it difficult to identify counterfeit features of surgical mask. So i actually prefer N95 mask. -Here's some counterfeit test and doubtful brands shared by forum regarding counterfeit surgical mask and FDA surgical mask. Do share with me if you have more reliable source to verify and identify counterfeit feature of surgical mask.
WHO background
World Health Organization (WHO)
United Nations specialized agency (headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland) responsible for world public health .
Primary role is to direct international health within the United Nations' system and to lead partners in global health responses.
WHO constitution signed by 61 countries
NIOSH background
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
United States federal agency responsible for research and recommendations for the prevention of work-related injury and illness.
NIOSH is part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
CDC background
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Leading national public health institute of the United States.
United States federal agency responsible to protect public health and safety through control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability in US and internationally.
The health care information on CDC is reliable and highly recommended by medical doctors. It's actually recommended by my specialist wellness doctor from famous private hospital.
Publishing division of the Harvard Medical School of Harvard University.
Havard University , Private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Ranked as the world's top university every year since it was released.
Publish latest health information that is authoritative, trustworthy, and accessible with expertise of the 10,000+ faculty physicians at Harvard Medical School.
Publishing content is made available to public through syndicated daily newspaper column and licensing arrangements with a wide range of public and corporate websites.
Harvard Medical School was founded in 1782 and encompasses 18 affiliated hospitals with more than 11,000 members of the faculty, including more than 10,000 clinical physicians.
OSHA background
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Agency of United States Department of Labor
established under Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act), responsible to assure safe and healthy working conditions, enforce standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance
-the information provided is based on personal experiences and some reading materials which i've came across during purchase. i do not guarantee 100% accuracy on the information provided as i do not have any professional healthcare qualification. Do get professional advice for best practice and before making any decisions.
