Culture:A crystal clear scam

[2017.03.29] 發表
(明報製圖)
(photo C )
(photo D )

【明報專訊】How can Pat not be a shopaholic in Austria (奧地利), a country famous for shimmering crystals?

“ MoMo: You've bought a lot of crystal jewellery already. Please keep within your budget. ”

“ Pat: It's okay. I've got enough money. ”

“ Eason: Hello, Madam. This Austrian crystal doll is exclusively designed for an elegant lady like you. ”

“ Pat: One for me please! ”

“ Pat: See what I've got from a jewellery shop in Austria. It's truly worth its price! ”

“ Pat: I didn't ask for a wooden doll! ”

“ MoMo: ...and that salesperson charged you three times its price! ”

■Culture tips

Austria is the crystal-making capital of the world. Most Austrian crystal items are actually made of lead glass. They sparkle brilliantly and are very eye-catching. Swarovski, which Daniel Swarovski founded in 1895, is the most famous of Austrian crystal manufacturers. The brand even has a museum called Swarovski Crystal Worlds. Featuring crystal art installations, it is a famous tourist attraction in Austria.

(See photo C、D )

■English highway﹕ jewellery

"Jewellery" is an uncountable noun. It has no plural and is always followed by a singular verb.

e.g. Mother puts all her jewellery in a glass box. Her jewellery is valuable.

■Glossary

shimmering (adj) 閃爍的

exclusively (adv) 獨家地

sparkle (v) 閃耀

installation (n) 裝置藝術

[Smarties' Power English Vol 182]

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