World’s most expensive Covid-19 face mask: US$1.5 million, 210 carats of diamonds, commissioned by a Chinese billionaire
The one-of-a-kind piece is expected to delivered by Israeli jeweller Yvel by the end of 2020, and if we somehow make it out of the pandemic before then, surely the mask makes for a singular memento of coronavirus – and the glaring wealth disparities the pandemic has laid all too bare
Saving face is an imperative in Chinese culture, and a bejewelled mask by Israeli jewellery house Yvel takes this to the next level, being custom-made to suit the requirements of a Shanghainese billionaire.
Costing a staggering US$1.5 million, the Yvel Covid-19 Protective Mask is the world’s most expensive face mask and is expected to be delivered by the end of 2020. With the first Covid-19 vaccine expected in early 2021, it seems likely that the mask will see at least a few months of wear. And if – fingers crossed – we somehow make it out of this pandemic before then, surely the mask makes for a singular memento of coronavirus (and, ironically enough, of the glaring wealth disparities the pandemic has laid all too bare.)
The million-dollar mask is to be made from 250 grams of 18-carat white gold and embellished with more than 3,600 natural black and white diamonds (for a total weight of 210 carats). Of course, aesthetics aside, the mask will also meet stringent health standards with the current pandemic in mind, including an N99 filter. In other words, the mask will filter out at least 99 per cent of airborne particles.
Interestingly, the businessman who placed the order specifically requested that the mask be “one of the most expensive in the world”. This was a challenge which was “quite easy for us to overcome”, according to Yvel co-founder and designer Isaac Levy.
The labour-intensive process for such a luxurious piece, in addition to its strict year-end deadline, also means that the man from Shanghai will not be the only one benefiting from the extravagant order. Yvel, which prides itself on hiring predominantly immigrant employees, has stated how such orders have helped preserve day-to-day operations at the factory for its workers.
Gaining or losing face would appear – in this case, at least – to be simply a matter of spending enough money.
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