I SIMPLY don’t go out without wearing jewellery. It would be like leaving the house without clothes on. Jewellery is part of my style, and I only feel complete and beautiful when I am wearing it.

Since I was young, I have been obsessed with the idea of wearing a whole set of diamonds. But my mother wouldn’t allow me to wear real ones, so I had to settle for cheap Russian diamonds. I still keep them as a souvenir.

Diamonds are my favourite gems of all time. Pearls come second. They can go with clothing of any colour, especially the black dresses I usually wear.

I rarely buy stones myself because I don’t understand much about them. When I want to buy them, I consult experts.

I don’t wear big jewellery because it doesn’t go well with my image. I usually wear fashionable dresses instead of traditional Myanmar longyi and blouses. I don’t think I look good in traditional clothes.

I buy clothes that will look beautiful with my jewellery rather than searching for jewellery that matches my clothes.

I am always pleased when people notice and compliment my jewellery. I feel proud when I wear something to a party that turns people’s heads, that prompts them to stare and comment on it.

I don’t go shopping for jewellery alone. I have friends in Myanmar and abroad who are in the jewellery business. Sometimes they call me and say, “Come and have a look at what I have made.”

I have also come across some interesting designs and beautifully cut stones while shopping for clothes in Bangkok. The important thing is wherever you buy, you need to bargain!

– Su Myat Hla