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News.com.au
18 hours ago
- Business
- News.com.au
Carnegie: House sold after 53 years in the one family
A Carnegie house that has been in the one family for more than 50 years has welcomed a new owner following a Saturday auction. Owner Johann De-Alwis said his mother bought the three-bedroom house at 270 Neerim Rd in 1972, following their immigration to Australia from Sri Lanka, via Ceylon, in the sixties. Sadly, Mr De-Alwis was aged just six when father died from a heart attack in 1965. 'My mum saved all her money and managed to buy this house for us,' Mr De-Alwis said. 'She was a single mum with two little kids and the banks wouldn't loan her any money, so she saved and did it all on her own steam for the equivalent of $14,000.' He described his late mother as 'a resolute and strong woman' who went on to work as an executive assistant in an engineering research and development team. Ray White Carnegie director Josh Hommelhoff, who had the listing, first met Mr De-Alwis two decades ago – when he first began thinking about selling the home. Mr De-Alwis said it was bittersweet to finally sell his long-time family home but that he was planning to buy a smaller house near Daylesford, in addition to finding an apartment in Carnegie so he could stay connected to his classic car club. He's also planning on taking his classic sky-blue 1964 Studebaker hawk car in the move. Out of three bidders, a developer bought the home for $1.355m. And a creative house in Melbourne's southeast fitted with upcycled materials and appliances also sold at a Saturday auction. The four-bedroom home at 17 Albert Rd, Hallam, attracted two bidders. Owner Jennie, who has spent decades at the address, said she had renovated after moving in. With a fondness for decorating and vintage style, she shopped around at places selling recycled fittings and materials for the project. 'The stove is from about the 1940s, I purchased it from someone else's home,' Jennie said. A sailor friend inspired her to adopt a nautical theme in some parts of the house such as the curved ceiling in one of the living areas. Jennie, who is selling up with plans for a sea-change, said the garden she had planted had grown in and provided plenty of privacy. 'It has been nice family home – it's really nice and a little bit quirky,' she said. Harcourts Asap Group Dandenong director Daniel Farrugia said that during the auction, the house was announced on the market at about the $712,000 mark. The abode sold for $730,500 to an investor who is planning to rent it out. Mr Farrugia said he had noticed increased investor activity across the past two months. 'You have interstate investors buying through buyers' advocates who are looking for smaller properties, while locals want something a bit bigger that they can subdivide,' he said.
Business Recorder
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Sri Lanka shares climb as all sectors but IT show gains
Sri Lankan shares closed higher on Thursday, aided by gains in all sectors except information technology stocks. The CSE All-Share index settled up 0.47% at 17,434.94, advancing for the eighth straight session. Industrial Asphalts (Ceylon) and Luminex were the top two percentage gainers on the CSE All-Share, rising 33.33% and 25%, respectively. IT, consumer staples lift Sri Lanka shares Trading volume on the index fell to 222.1 million shares from 279 million in the previous session. The equity market's turnover fell to 5.60 billion Sri Lankan rupees ($18.7 million) from 7.37 billion rupees in the previous session, according to exchange data. Foreign investors were net buyers, purchasing stocks worth 164.8 million rupees, while domestic investors were net sellers, offloading shares worth 5.47 billion rupees, the data showed.
Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
A 392-Carat Sapphire Could Fetch $12 Million Christie's New York Sale
'The Blue Belle,' a 392.52-carat Ceylon sapphire with an estimate of $8 - $12 million A fancy pink diamond with French Imperial provenance, Indian Mughal jewels and a 392.52-carat Ceylon sapphire are among the highlights of Christie's New York Magnificent Jewels auction on June 17. An historic jewel of exceptional provenance is one of the premier lots of the sale at Christie's Rockefeller Center headquarters. The 'Marie-Thérèse Pink Diamond' has a storied past that has passed through French, Bavaria and Austrian imperial and royal families and may be linked to Queen Marie Antoinette. The rare 10.38-carat kite-shaped fancy purple-pink diamond with SI1 clarity is believed to date to the mid-18th century, Christie's said. As the story goes, Marie Antoinette entrusted her jewels to her coiffeur on the eve of her failed escape from Paris in 1791, hoping to one day reclaim them. The jewels were then passed down to her only surviving child, Duchess Marie Thérèse de Angoulême, and later to her niece, Duchess Marie Thérèse de Chambord. Though not known for certain, it is likely that this pink diamond was part of this inheritance, Christie's said. The 'Marie-Thérèse Pink Diamond' with an estimate of $3 million - $5 million FEATURED | Frase ByForbes™ Unscramble The Anagram To Reveal The Phrase Pinpoint By Linkedin Guess The Category Queens By Linkedin Crown Each Region Crossclimb By Linkedin Unlock A Trivia Ladder 'Generations later,' Christie's said, a will identified the diamond's next known owner as Queen Marie Theresa of Bavaria, who referred to it as 'a pink solitaire diamond from Aunt Chambord.' The gem was stored in a velvet case containing a hat pin bearing the Austrian Imperial Warrant—likely dating to 1868—the diamond's provenance reflects its imperial legacy, Christie's said. The gem last appeared at auction in Geneva in 1996, offered by a member of a European royal family. Since that sale it has remained out of public view. In addition to its likely imperial provenance, the diamond has been set into a contemporary platinum ring paved with diamonds designed and crafted by famed American-Parisian jeweler Joel Arthur Rosenthal, better known as JAR. The estimate for the fancy pink diamond ring is $3 million - $5 million, making it the number two lot in the auction. The top honor in the 139-lot sale goes to a necklace featuring a 392.52-carat unheated Ceylon sapphire with a modified mixed-cut called 'The Blue Belle.' It is one of the largest known sapphires in the world. (top photo) Like the fancy pink diamond, this massive sapphire has a history shrouded in mystery. The gem was unearthed in 1926 at Pelmadula, Ratnapura ('The City of Gems') in Ceylon, but the size and shape of the gem in its rough form is unknown, Christie's said. It had a 'highly prized peacock blue color and excellent clarity,' according to the documentation Christie's uncovered. It was owned by the well-known gem and jewelry dealers Macan Markar in Colombo. 'The Blue Belle,' a 392.52-carat Ceylon sapphire with an estimate of $8 - $12 million Acquired in 1937 by British motor magnate Lord Nuffield. It is believed he planned to give it to Queen Elizabeth (later The Queen Mother) on King George VI's coronation. Instead, the jewel was sold privately and passed through several owners before appearing at Christie's Geneva auction in 2014 where it sold for $17.3 million. The sapphire is the centerpiece of an elaborate 18k white gold necklace covered in round and oval shaped diamond. Its estimate is $8 million - $12 million. In addition, the New York auction will offer three gem-set necklaces with historic Indian Mughal provenance. A Mughal Antique Carved Emerald Necklace with an estimate of $2 million - $3 million The first is a Mughal carved emerald necklace consisting of three carved Colombian hexagonal and two carved pear-shaped Colombian emeralds with an approximate total weight of 1,150 carats. The largest emerald of approximately 470 carats is inscribed with the name 'Ahmad Shah Durr-I Durran,' founder of the Durrani Empire of Afghanistan and northwest India. Its estimate is $2 million - $3 million. A Mughal antique multi-gem and emerald necklace with an estimate of $2 million - $3 million Similar to the first piece, is a Mughal multi-gem and emerald necklace featuring four Colombian emeralds weighing nearly 800 carats. The necklace is further adorned with a drop-shaped spinel bead, a baroque ruby bead and baroque natural pearls. Its estimate is $2 million - $3 million. A Mughal three-strand spinel and natural pearl necklace with an estimate of $1 million - $2 million The third piece is a Mughal three-strand spinel and natural pearl necklace with eight inscribed stones, in the Mughal tradition of memorializing gemstones to record their royal provenance. These spinels bear the names of some of the most powerful figures in history, including Muhammad ibn Tughluq-Shah, the Sultan of Delhi, the first Mughal emperor, Babur, and emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan, Christie's said. The spinels have an approximate total weight of more than 2,000 carats. The estimate for the necklace is $1 million - $2 million. In addition, the New York auction is featuring a collection of jewels from the estate of Anne Hendricks Bass, an American investor, documentary filmmaker, and art collector who was the former wife of billionaire oilman Sid Bass. The collection consists of 26 personal jewels that feature examples from Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Cartier and JAR. Van Cleef & Arpels diamond pendant earrings with an estimate of $1.2 million - $1.8 million The top lot in this group is a pair of Van Cleef & Arpels earrings featuring pear brilliant-cut D-color diamonds of 11.93 and 11.83 carats, marquise, pear-shaped and round diamonds, platinum and white gold. Its estimate is $1.2 million - $1.8 million. JAR sapphire, emerald and diamond necklace with an estimate of $200,000 - $300,000 The Bass collection also includes 11 jewels by JAR, led by a necklace featuring 22 drop briolette emeralds with rows of faceted sapphire beads and round diamonds set in platinum and 18k white gold. Its estimate is $200,000 - $300,000. In a break from recent trends, colorless diamonds will play a significant role in Christie's June 17 auction. Among the standouts are: A 66.74-carat unmounted diamond with an estimate of $3.2 million - $4.2 million A 66.74-carat unmounted round brilliant-cut diamond with D color, VVS1 clarity and 'excellent cut, polish and symmetry,' according to the reports. The Type IIa diamond has an estimate of $3.2 million - $4.2 million. A platinum necklace with a 25.45-carat pear brilliant-cut flawless, D-color diamond with an estimate ... More of $1.5 million - $2 million A platinum necklace centered with a 25.45-carat pear brilliant-cut flawless, D-color diamond with an estimate of $1.5 million - $2 million. Harry Winston diamond pendant necklace with an estimate of $1.2 million - $1.8 million A platinum and 18k white gold necklace by Harry Winston featuring a 17.50-carat pear brilliant-cut diamond of D color and VVS1 clarity, 5.01-carat round brilliant-cut diamond D-color and SI1 clarity. The remainder of the necklace is covered with round, pear, emerald and marquise diamonds. Its estimate is $1.2 million - $1.8 million. A Harry Winston diamond diamond ring with an estimate of $1.2 million - $1.8 million. A platinum Harry Winston ring centered with a 23.26-carat internally flawless emerald-cut diamond with D-color flanked by shield-shaped diamonds. Its estimate is $1.2 million - $1.8 million. All 139 lots in the Christie's New York Magnificent Jewels auction will be on view at the auction house's Rockefeller Center headquarters from June 12 through June 16.
Emirates Woman
22-05-2025
- Emirates Woman
Eid Al Adha Escape Plan: 7 unusual getaways less than 4 hours from Dubai
Eid al Adha is the perfect opportunity to trade Dubai's glittering skyline for an unforgettable getaway—and you don't need to venture far to experience something extraordinary. Whether you're craving pristine beaches, misty mountains, or cities rich in culture and history, these seven destinations are all just a short flight away, each offering a unique escape from the ordinary. Colombo, Sri Lanka Image credits: Photo by Tharoushan Kandarajah, Jalitha Hewage on Unsplash A Tapestry of Culture, Jungle, and Coast Just four hours from Dubai, Sri Lanka's vibrant capital, Colombo, serves as the perfect gateway to an island brimming with natural beauty and cultural treasures. Beyond the city's colonial architecture and bustling markets, the real magic lies in the countryside. Picture yourself sipping freshly brewed Ceylon tea while overlooking endless emerald tea plantations, or boarding the iconic Kandy-to-Ella train, a journey that winds through misty hills, past cascading waterfalls, and into the heart of Sri Lanka's lush highlands. For the adventurous, a sunrise climb up Sigiriya Rock—an ancient fortress rising dramatically from the jungle—is a must, rewarding hikers with panoramic views. If relaxation is the priority, the south coast's golden beaches, like Dalawella, offer swaying palms and tranquil waters. Whether you're exploring ancient temples, spotting elephants on safari, or simply unwinding at a boutique tea estate, Sri Lanka blends adventure and serenity effortlessly, making it the perfect destination this Eid Al Adha. Kannur, India Photo by Anil Donoji on Pexels Kerala's Best-Kept Secret For those who've already experienced Kerala's famous backwaters, Kannur—just a three-and-a-half-hour flight from Dubai—offers a quieter, more authentic slice of South India. This coastal gem was once a hub of the spice trade, and its history lingers in the Portuguese and Dutch forts that dot the shoreline. St. Angelo Fort, perched overlooking the Arabian Sea, is a highlight, its weathered walls whispering tales of colonial conquests. Nearby, Muzhappilangad Drive-In Beach invites a unique experience: cruising along the sand with the waves lapping at your tires. Culture enthusiasts shouldn't miss Theyyam, a mesmerizing ritual dance performed in temples across the region, where elaborately costumed dancers channel deities in a trance-like spectacle. And no visit is complete without indulging in Malabar cuisine—think fragrant seafood curries, fluffy appams, and rich, coconut-infused stews. For a truly serene stay, The Raviz Kadavu offers backwater villas and Ayurvedic spa treatments, ensuring total relaxation. Kathmandu, Nepal Photo by Raimond Klavins on Unsplash Where Chaos Meets Enlightenment A mere four-hour flight transports you to Kathmandu, a city that assaults the senses in the best possible way. The air hums with the scent of incense, the chatter of market vendors, and the rhythmic chants from ancient temples. Start your journey in Durbar Square, a UNESCO-listed maze of palaces and shrines where sadhus (holy men) and street sellers create a living tapestry of Nepali life. Nearby, the monkey-filled alleys of Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) offer panoramic views of the city, while the massive stupa of Boudhanath draws pilgrims and visitors alike to its peaceful, prayer-flag-draped courtyard. For a taste of local flavor, Thamel's labyrinthine streets are packed with cozy cafés serving steaming bowls of momos and hearty dal bhat. If the urban energy becomes overwhelming, a short trip to the Chandragiri Hills provides respite, with cable cars leading to breathtaking Himalayan vistas—on clear days, even Mount Everest is visible. Kathmandu is a city that demands patience, but those who embrace its chaos leave with unforgettable memories. Tbilisi, Georgia Photo by Neil Sengupta on Unsplash A Feast for the Senses Georgia's charming capital, just over three hours from Dubai, is a dream for foodies, history lovers, and design enthusiasts alike. Meander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, where ornate wooden balconies lean over hidden wine bars and sulfur bathhouses emit plumes of steam. The culinary scene alone is worth the trip—indulge in khachapuri (cheese-filled bread boats), succulent khinkali dumplings, and pkhali (walnut-studded vegetable pâtés). For a dose of history, the Narikala Fortress offers sweeping city views, while the Dry Bridge Flea Market is a treasure trove of Soviet-era relics, vintage jewelry, and quirky antiques. Stay at the Stamba Hotel, a stylish conversion of a former printing house where books line the walls and the vibe is effortlessly cool. With its mix of old-world charm and modern creativity, Tbilisi is a city that lingers in your heart long after departure – a supreme choice for this Eid al Adha. Larnaca, Cyprus Photo by Hert Niks on Unsplash Sun, Sea, and Ancient History Just four and a half hours from Dubai, Larnaca combines Mediterranean relaxation with fascinating history. The city's coastline stretches for 75 kilometers, offering sandy beaches where you can kitesurf, dive to shipwrecks, or simply soak up the sun. The iconic Hala Sultan Tekke, a serene mosque perched on the edge of Larnaca Salt Lake, is a must-visit, especially in winter when flocks of pink flamingos descend upon the waters. History buffs will appreciate the Church of Saint Lazarus, a stunning 9th-century Orthodox church said to house the tomb of Lazarus himself. For a taste of traditional Cypriot life, wander the old Turkish quarter, where bougainvillea-draped houses hide cozy tavernas serving mezze feasts of halloumi, grilled octopus, and slow-cooked lamb. With its blend of beachside bliss and cultural depth, Larnaca is the ideal Eid retreat. Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan Photo by Mike Dudin on Unsplash Central Asia's Unsung Gem Four hours from Dubai lies Bishkek, a city where Soviet grandeur meets nomadic spirit. Wide boulevards lined with towering oak trees lead to bustling bazaars, where vendors sell everything from fresh honey to handwoven shyrdak rugs. Ala-Too Square, the city's heart, is flanked by the imposing State Historical Museum, its Soviet-era mosaics telling Kyrgyzstan's complex story. Art lovers should seek out Gallery M, a contemporary space showcasing local painters and sculptors. For a taste of the countryside, take a day trip to Ala-Archa National Park, where alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks provide a stunning backdrop for hiking. Bishkek's café culture thrives too—stop by a traditional chaikhana (tea house) for steaming bowls of laghman noodles and endless cups of fragrant green tea. With its mix of urban energy and wild nature, Bishkek is a refreshingly off-the-radar escape. Mahé, Seychelles Photo by Christian Cacciamani on Unsplash Paradise in Just Over Four Hours For those craving pure tropical bliss, Mahé—the largest island in the Seychelles—is just over four hours from Dubai. Picture powder-soft beaches framed by granite boulders, turquoise waters teeming with marine life, and lush rainforests alive with rare birds. Spend your days snorkeling in Anse Intendance, hiking through Morne Seychellois National Park, or browsing the vibrant stalls of Victoria's market, where vanilla pods and fresh coconuts abound. Luxury resorts like the Four Seasons offer overwater villas and private beaches, while boutique guesthouses provide a more intimate experience. With its year-round sunshine and laid-back island rhythm, Mahé is the ultimate Eid escape for sun-seekers and romantics alike. This Eid al Adha, skip the usual destinations and venture somewhere new—whether it's the misty hills of Sri Lanka, the spice-scented streets of Kannur, or the sun-drenched shores of Cyprus. Each of these escapes promises adventure, relaxation, and memories to last long after the holiday ends. All you need to do is choose your favorite and pack your bags! – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Feature Image:
Time Out Dubai
20-05-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
International Tea Day: Emirates serves 33 million cups of tea every year
Dubai's biggest airline has revealed that it serves a whopping 33 million cups of tea every year to passengers. The tea-rrific stat was announced ahead of International Tea Day on Wednesday May 21. Emirates cabin crew are specifically trained on how to brew the perfect cup of tea and further enhance the flavour with the right amount of fresh mint, honey or lemon. The world's busiest international airline is celebrating a 33-year partnership with Sri Lankan tea company Dilmah Tea. Anyone travelling with the airline on International Tea Day on a flight lasting over 2.5 hours will be gifted a special edition gift box of the stuff. The box will contain the Emirates signature tea – Dombagastalawa FBOP1 scented with Rose, Almond and Ginger – as well as Moroccan mint green tea and Ceylon tea with strawberry. The first-class tea selection on Emirates flights (Credit: Emirates) First and business class passengers will be able to sample mixed drinks crafted with Dilmah Tea across all Emirates lounges across the world on Wednesday May 21. And until the end of May, Emirates' cabin crew will offer tea pairing tips as part of its afternoon tea service in first and business class flights to the UK. Tea and food pairing tips offered up by Emirates cabin crew include green tea with seafood, soft cheeses and sushi and black tea with beef, game, desserts or hard cheeses. Floral teas such as chamomile should be paired with dishes that have a citrus or tart flavour profile, like Emirates vegan Zucchini tart. First class passengers get a choice between six different gourmet blends of tea every day on Emirates flights. Choices include Earl Grey, pure chamomile flowers, breakfast, sencha green extra special, Moroccan mint green tea and Emirates signature tea. Business class passengers choose between five luxury leaf tea including Earl Grey, Ceylon tea, pure chamomile flowers, green tea natural and green tea Moroccan mint. While premium economy and economy customers can choose between Ceylon or natural green tea. Jetting off soon? Travelling for Eid Al Adha? This is the best day to find a cheap flight deal An expert reveals all New Emirates flights from Dubai for 2025 Will you be jetting off soon? New flydubai flights from Dubai for 2025 Your holiday plans sorted
