There were as many sales people and security guards as there were invited guests.

It was an invitation-only event at the Singapore JewelFest 2008 at Ngee Ann City last Friday.

The occasion: Launch of the Singapore/Summer 2009 collections from various jewellers.

The extra security was expected. After all, millions of dollars worth of jewellery was on display.

And to entice the high rollers, there was free flow of champagne and wine to loosen the wallets.

The display of gems was wonderfully vulgar. Huge rocks and sparkly bits glittered from every corner.

On the catwalk, models wore shiny pieces of baubles that were dramatic and lush.

These are not to be worn while taking the MRT but designed to be showstoppers. So when you strut into a room for whatever reason, people will be expected to swoon on cue.

One item that drew gasps was the US$4.5million ($6.8m) bejewelled bikini set (right).

The set has a thong (no jewel on the back strap - we checked) and comes with a bangle and a hairclip too. The entire set contains 1.662 carats.

Cold as ice

And as expected, an event like this attracted the tai tai set.

They say diamond is like ice, and that was perhaps why some of the women were cold, especially when asked about their ages.

One answered icily: 'A gentleman never asks a woman for her age.'

The chill from her eyes could have given you frostbite.

» Gallery: Bejeweled bikini steals the show

This article was first published in The New Paper on Oct 26, 2008.