Here are some investment-worthy gemstones according to a Singapore-based Italian jeweller

diamonds

What are the gemstones that come to mind when we mention “investment-worthy”?

Maybe some of you might be thinking of rubies, emeralds, and diamonds. While the three are definitely high in value, they are not the only stones deserving of all your attention.

According to Danilo Giannoni, a Singapore-based Italian jeweller, there are other sparkly rocks likely to grow in value. So, stay on this page if you want to work out your next investment move.

#1: Royal blue sapphire
a blue sapphire ring

Image Credits: Arte Oro

Since a saturated royal blue sapphire is internationally recognised and highly sought after, an investment in that would be considered “safe”. Expect to spend in the range of US$50,000 per carat if you’re looking to purchase a decent-grade blue sapphire.

However, it’s also worth noting that other colours are quickly gaining popularity. You will want to spend some time researching the saturation and tones to find the right sapphire for investment.

#2: Scarcely precious tanzanite
A pair of unheated tanzanites

Image Credits: Arte Oro / Client’s private collection

When something is in short supply compared to the demand for it, its value shoots up. This is a simple concept most of us understand, especially since the early days of the pandemic has led to high prices of face masks being sold.

Similarly, since tanzanite can only be sourced from a small area in Tanzania, supplies are limited. The prices are currently reasonable at US$1,000 to US$5,000 per carat, way lower than sapphires. But still, it’s forecasted to rise sharply in price should interests peak.

#3: Mid-range toned Paraiba tourmaline
A pure and almost luminous turquoise tourmaline

Image Credits: Arte Oro

Speaking of rarity, the Paraiba tourmaline wins the comparison against tanzanite. They can only be extracted from three mines situated in the remote areas of northeastern Brazil.

Thus, you can expect its high price tag of up to US$100,000 per carat, though its exact figure greatly depends on tones and colours. While clarity is essential, it’s not the top deciding factor for the best returns.

#4: Beautifully reactive alexandrite
an alexandrite engagement ring

Image Credits: brides.com

When we say reactive, we mean that this precious mineral reacts to various light sources to emit its colour-changing characteristic. Thanks to its chemical composition, a person who owns this gem can observe its colour change from blue-green to red-purple from day to night.

It’s not just stunningly beautiful to observe, but it also performs well in the markets. Over the last few years, alexandrite has seen double-digit annual returns by collectors worldwide. An extraordinary carat with top-tier quality can cost up to US$100,000.

#5: Bright pink-red spinels
A very rare 10.5-carat Mahenge spinel from Tanzania

Image Credits: Arte Oro

As we come to a close, we have bright pink-red spinels to end us off this list. Spinels may not have been popular a few years back, but now, it’s a whole different story. With more buyers attracted to candy-coloured designer jewellery collections in recent years, spinel has climbed up the ranks to be considered investment-worthy.

Interestingly, it’s not the pure colourless spinel that is desired but the red, hot pink, and flame orange ones that are now in the spotlight. To be exact, neon pink-red spinels from Tanzania are the ones with tremendous investment potential, with prices up to US$50,000 per carat.

Now that you have an idea of what’s trending, do your due research and start collecting!

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6 Thomson-East Coast Line Stations Will Soon Open In Q3 2021

Represented by the color brown on the rail map, the Thomson–East Coast Line (TEL) is a new Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line in Singapore. It is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by year 2024. Its completion will provide the residents in the East and along the North-South Corridor a faster access to the city.

The TEL’s development spans five different phases. When these phases are accomplished, it will serve approximately one million commuters a day. The first phase of TEL (TEL 1) opened for service last January 31, 2020. TEL 1 includes Woodlands North, Woodlands, and Woodlands South MRT stations. The second phase of the TEL (TEL 2) is scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2021.

EXPERIENCING EARLIER DELAYS

Due to the circumstances brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and further system review, the second phase of the Thomson–East Coast Line had been delayed twice from its original target opening date. A system review was prompted by a five-hour disruption along the line last Dec 4, 2020.

In a glimmer of hope, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) handed over six MRT stations along the second phase of the Thomson-East Coast Line to SMRT last Friday (April 30, 2021). This entails that there will be nine operational stations in the TEL soon.

Image Credits: facebook.com/WeKeepYourWorldMoving (LTA)

MORE ON THE SIX STATIONS

The six stations (TEL 2) that were handed over to SMRT included Springleaf, Lentor, Mayflower, Bright Hill, Upper Thomson, and Caldecott. The Caldecott station will become an interchange that connects to the Circle Line.

According to LTA: “The civil and structural works for the six stations have been completed, with some architectural, electrical, and mechanical works ongoing.

LTA has also completed rigorous testing and commissioning of the trains and systems for (the second stage of the Thomson-East Coast Line), including tests to ensure that the new stations operate seamlessly with the three (operating) stations.”

Train operator SMRT will continue with more tests to ensure everyone’s safety.

UPGRADE IN THE COMMUTER’S TRAVEL TIME

LTA highlights the convenience of faster travels upon the opening of the Thomson-East Coast Line’s second phase. By Q3 of 2021, residents from households near (i.e., within a 10-minute walking distance) one of the nine stations can expect travel time savings of up to 50%. For instance, a Sin Ming resident travelling to Republic Polytechnic by public transport will enjoy a 25-minute journey instead of the current 50-minute travel time.

Image Credits: facebook.com/WeKeepYourWorldMoving (LTA)

More TEL stations will be opened in the next three years. Moreover, the Jurong Region Line and the Cross Island Line are still under construction. Let us stay tuned!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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Ask Your Insurance Agent These 4 Important Questions

Life is full of uncertainties. We are not aware of what will happen in the next hour or the next day. Despite this, we try our best to plan out our lives as best as we can. As you plan for the future, you may consider getting an insurance. Insurance is a means to cushion against financial losses and unexpected events.

Complete your financial plan by finding a suitable insurance policy that will cover your hospital bills, critical illnesses, and other needs. Do your research and ask your insurance providers for guidance to find the most suitable insurance plan for you.

On that note, here are four important questions that you may ask to your insurance agent.

#1: WHICH TYPE OF INSURANCE DO I NEED?

The distribution of insurance is regulated by the Insurance Act. Under this act, no one is allowed to establish an insurance business unless licensed or authorized by the Government. It also entails the duties and responsibilities of the insurance agents such as arranging contracts of insurance and collecting or receiving premiums on policies in Singapore. The insurance agent helps customize your insurance policy to best suit your needs.

There are many types of insurance policies. While endowment policies focus on savings, protection-type policies protect you from unforeseen circumstances. Do your research prior to meeting your insurance agent. As you become transparent with your financial circumstance, you may ask more questions surrounding the differences in their insurance policies. For instance, you may ask your agent to elaborate on the specifications of both their health and life insurance policies. With so many types of insurance around, you cannot blame a person for getting confused at first!

#2: IS IT ESSENTIAL TO PAY MORE WHEN MAKING A CLAIM?

Let us put a spotlight on health insurance. Although insurance policies help cover most of your hefty hospital bills, you can expect to pay some portion in form of deductibles and co-payments. Deductible is the initial amount that you need to pay for claim/s made in a policy year. You need to pay the deductible before you can get a payout from your insurance. On the other hand, co-payments are crucial principle in the design of health insurance. Co-payment is the amount that you need to split with the insurer after paying your deductibles.

Depending on your insurance provider, some health insurance policies may not cover certain illnesses or procedures. For instance, many health insurance policies will not pay for your cosmetic procedures. Ask your insurance agent about this. Know the scope and limitations of a policy before committing to one.

#3: HOW MUCH DOES THE INSURANCE COST?

Whether you are getting a car insurance or a life insurance, it is vital to scan your options in order to find a policy that fits your financial capabilities. The cost of life insurance, health insurance, car insurance, etc., will vary.

From a general perspective, the price of insurance depends on the risks. People who are working in high-risk jobs (e.g., factory workers or construction foremen) may be subjected to higher premiums. The insurance practice of charging higher premiums for certain occupational classes is called occupational loading. This practice is most commonly found in personal accident insurance. Do note that the premiums will also be affected by other factors such as the number of years that you need to have the policy in place.

Ask your insurance agent about this. If you feel that you cannot afford all the insurance coverage available, you do not need to worry. Your insurance agent will help you to prioritize your needs.

#4: HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU UPDATE YOUR INSURANCE POLICY?

Throughout our lives, our goals and needs will change. This is why experts suggest to review your insurance policies every year. You may ask an insurance agent or a financial advisor for advice regarding the possibility of increasing your insurance coverage as years pass.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Gradual increase in your insurance coverage may help prepare for the unexpected health problems that might come as you age.

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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5 Mother’s Day gift ideas for the ones who like to DIY

gift boxes

Here’s a warm welcome to May from all of us at Money Digest.

With the increase in community cases recently, the government has encouraged residents to limit their social interactions.

For those planning to tone down this year’s Mother’s Day celebration, given the current situation, how about having a simple meal at home? Just in case you’re unaware, you can still keep to the eight-person limit for now.

As you prepare your mini celebrations for mummy, allow us to share some Mother’s Day gift ideas for children and adults who like to DIY.

#1: Meaningful bilateral self-portrait
bilateral self-portrait

Image Credits: Pinterest

Make mum a meaningful bilateral self-portrait with two halves of your photo! You can choose your favourite childhood picture and attach another current adult photo to make one whole. Or, if you have kids, use your child’s picture to mirror the other half.

#2: Handmade everlasting flowers
paper flowers in a vase

Image Credits: thinkmakeshareblog.com

Are you thinking of getting flowers for the first woman in your life? While real flowers are pretty and can instantly lift a person’s mood, their lifespan is relatively short. Not to mention, they are quite expensive too. Click through the link to view 12 DIY paper flower types you can make for 9 May.

#3: Creative stone paperweights
Fabric-covered stone paperweight

Image Credits: Pinterest

See if you can grab hold of some fabric scraps from a friend or neighbour who likes to sew. If not, visit Daiso to get some affordable printed fabric. Then, find a heavy pebble and cover it with your choice of material. There you go, a simple but useful paperweight made with love.

#4: Lovely stitched card
love-stitched card

Image Credits: crafts.tutsplus.com

With most things going digital nowadays, wishing mum a Happy Mother’s Day can be done in a simple text message. But we believe the old school way of writing cards would definitely be a great surprise for all mummies!

Don’t just pick one off the shelves. Make a simple stitched card along with your handwritten message. All you need is a printed heart template, a needle, and coloured threads of your choice. Paste the template lightly on your card, poke holes along the heart’s outline, and run the strings from end to end. Easy peasy.

#5: Practical coaster creation
felt coasters

Image Credits: delineateyourdwelling.com

We’re not sure about you, but we think most households have watermarks on their desks or dining tables, thanks to the absence of coasters. Make mum one if she doesn’t already have it.

All you need is to purchase some adhesive-backed felt (as the base) and coloured ones from Popular. Cut them into different shapes and sizes, and then paste them on the base to form your unique one-and-only practical coaster! Make a few designs, so mum has enough replacements to last her through the year.

For more creative gifts and adorable card ideas, click here and here. Blessed Mother’s Day to all the superwomen in the world!

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Apple AirTag, Samsung SmartTag & Other Location Trackers In Singapore

Are you looking for the perfect present for that one friend who loses absolutely everything? Search no further than this list of location trackers.

People who tend to forget where they last placed their items can benefit from location or GPS trackers such as Apple AirTag and Samsung Galaxy SmartTag. These trackers can be used for a variety of ways such as locating where you parked your bicycle or locating your beloved pet. People who are suffering from memory loss may also use these devices as aides.

On that note, here are 4 location trackers that can be purchased in Singapore.

#1: APPLE AIRTAG

Before its launch in April 30, numerous Apple fanatics have been raving about the technology of the Apple AirTag. Apple AirTag aims to provide its users with an easy way of tracking your items. You can attach this portable AirTag to your keys, slip it to your backpack, or place it at the back of your iPad.

Locate your item by asking Siri for help (e.g., “Hey Siri, find my bag!”) or by playing a sound on its built-in speaker. You can activate its alarm by using the Find My app. If it is hiding nearby, you can simply follow the sound and end your search. If you have misplaced it outside, you can assign a phone number to a lost AirTag.

When it comes to privacy, Apple has put several measures to ensure that the AirTag cannot be misused. For starters, you cannot activate an AirTag on behalf of someone else. Secondly, the AirTag will draw attention to itself by playing a sound if it has been separated from its owner for a long period of time. Lastly, your iOS devices can identify if an unknown AirTag is travelling around with you. This will give an alert that the unknown AirTag’s owner can see your location.

Price starts from S$45 at apple.com/sg/airtag.

#2: SAMSUNG GALAXY SMARTTAG

Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag is a small, battery-powered device that you can attach to your important items such as your wallet or backpack. It is a black square device with a hole for your key ring or clip. As a responsible pet-owner, you may attach it to your pet’s collar too. Once it is set up, you can link it to your Samsung account. The tag can be located using the SmartThings Find app on your phone.

Activate its sound feature by tapping the ring button on your mobile and follow the familiar sound. Even when you are offline, the Galaxy Find Network can be used to find your SmartTag privately. Furthermore, it is easy to retrace where your tag has been by scrolling through its history.

Price starts from S$34.90 at mobyshop.com.sg. You can also purchase the SmartTag from different stores.

#3: NUT MINI SMART TRACKER

One of the most affordable GPS trackers in the market is the Nut Mini Smart Tracker. Its lightweight and compact design weighs no more than 70 grams. Speaking of its compact design, it is as small as a mobile SIM card. Its size makes it easy to insert it in your wallet, your car, or your child’s bag. It is compatible to both Android and iOS devices.

All you need to do is to beep the button to know where the item is. If your item goes out of range, it will alert you through its application. The only downsides to this tracker are the lack of an emergency button and the lack of a battery life indicator. Considering its price of about S$9.52 in Shopee, it is already a steal!

#4: ORBIT SMART TRACKER

Save yourself the hassle of searching for your misplaced items by attaching the Orbit Smart Tracker to your keys or your purse. If the Orbit is within the range, it will play a loud sound. This will help you locate your item. If you lose your phone, you can press the button on the tracker to make your mobile phone ring. This works even when you are on silent mode.

It is possible to know the history of the tracker too. Give your memory a break and let the app tell you where you last left your item. This way, you will know where to look first. What is more? You can take the perfect selfie by setting up your phone and using the Orbit as a camera remote.

This tracker has a replaceable battery, a battery notification, and no yearly subscription. Having a replaceable battery reduces product wastage. Get your own Orbit tracker on eezee.sg for S$46.27 (exc. GST) or on shopee.sg for as low as S$40.50.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

The abovementioned location trackers can locate your prized possessions as well as your beloved pets and family members. Leaving your home knowing that your valuables are protected can be possible with these tracking devices.

Sources: 1 & 2

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