Culture:A crystal clear scam
【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]