Ever wondered what an 11.55 carat worth $1.9 million looks like? Or how about a watch with 64 baguette diamonds (10.9 carats worth) set in 18 carat white gold (also known as The Royal Regent, worth a princely $1.8 million)?

These were some of the delights on show at the opening of the new Diamond Room – couture collections by Fairfax & Roberts and Backes & Strauss timepieces for men and women.

We spoke to Backes & Strauss CEO Vartkess Knadjian about his passion; he showed us some jaw-dropping loose diamonds in their perfected ‘Ideal cut’. Under the shade of a giant cascading blossom tree designed by Saskia Havekes (Grandiflora), guests mingled amongst some very sparkly jewels.

Opera singer Amelia Farrugia gave her definitive rendition of ‘Diamonds are a girl’s best friend’, supported by John Foreman on keys and some zealous male dancers.

The crowd included a big contingent of Quintessentially (luxe social member’s club) and one lucky guest won the door prize (a pair of diamond ear rings). Mr Kay, in case you’re reading; your ears aren’t pierced and you’re most welcome to send them our way.

With Nicola Cerrone’s new flagship Cerrone boutique opening around the corner a day earlier, we’re bracing for some much more serious bling in the city.

Image credits 1 & 4 - Caroline McCredie, SnapperMedia