All that glitters...at Valletta Waterfront

A filigree replica of the Queen's crown encrusted with more than 520 precious stones and weighing 1.2kg is one of the main attractions at this year's exhibition of Sterling Jewellers.

The crown, which took Sterling's craftsmen two months to create, takes pride of place alongside the 18-carat Commonwealth mace that is on display at Vault 1 at the Valletta Waterfront, under tight security.

Sterling's chairman Alfred Fenech said once the exhibition is over, the crown will join other works of art at Sterling's crafts museum in Republic Street, Valletta.

Mr Fenech was speaking at the launch of Sterling's 10th exhibition, Emozzjoni 05, which opens today at the Valletta Waterfront and runs until November 27 between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.

The exhibition coincides with Sterling's sponsorship of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) and gives the public the rare chance to see the Commonwealth mace up close.

The mace, with an oval cabochon ruby at its head, is adorned with the flags of each Commonwealth member state and will be used by Queen Elizabeth II to open CHOGM.

In keeping with the theme, the Prime Minister's wife, Catherine Gonzi, will be the patron of the exhibition. Along with the mace, Sterling will also display a vast collection of fashionable jewellery, timepieces, gems and semi-precious stones together with loose diamonds, including the newly launched 88-facet diamond, as opposed to the traditional 56-carat.

Sterling has been chosen to craft the gifts that will be presented by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi to the heads of delegation and their wives: gold and silver cufflinks for the men and a filigree Maltese cross for the women.

CHOGM task force chairman Salv Stellini said the gifts will be a walking advert of the island's crafts and talents.

"This is another opportunity to export our country's potential as through CHOGM we shall be promoting our local artisanship," Mr Stellini said.

Also on display is the Vulcano bracelet, designed by Salvini for the Diamonds International Award. This armlet is remarkable for its essential and flawless design.

Sterling will also unveil the innovative Sterling Diamonds Collection featuring a selection of solitaires, trilogy and eternity rings.

Mr Fenech said the public was also spoilt for choice from world renowned brands like Gucci, Corum, Versace, Armani, DKNY, Fendi, Tommy Hilfiger, Burberry, Guess, Bliss, Pasquale Bruni, Salvini and Alfred Dunhill among others.

Early next year, Sterling will continue expanding its chain of outlets with another retail shop, this time at the Valletta Waterfront.

Those who visit the exhibition have a chance to win a diamond trilogy ring.

Entrance is free.