The 2008 Miss Universe crown, valued at US$120 thousand dollars and is made of 18K white and yellow gold, comprises over 1,000 precious stones including 555 white diamonds, weighing 30 carats, 375 cognac diamonds weighing 14 carats, 10 smoky quartz crystals and 19 morganite gemstones.

The crown was designed by Rosalina Tran Lydster of Jewelry by Rosalina and Ms. Dang Thi Kim Lien of CAO Fine Jewelry of Vietnam. The colors were chosen for their significance: The yellow luster of the gold represents the prosperous thriving economy in Vietnam, while white, light pink and cognac, the main hues in the crown, represent inspiration and feeling.

“The Miss Universe crown is one of the most revered pieces of jewelry in the world. We are very excited to have partnered with CAO Fine Jewelry and Jewelry by Rosalina to create this year’s crown,” says î said Paula M. Shugart, President of the Miss Universe Organization.

“The curved design creates a natural rhythm and a stable structure for the crown, symbolizing the spirit of unity. The crown combines the beauty and the character of each nation, accomplishing the goal of the pageant, which is international unity,” explain designers Ms. Kim Lien and Rosalina Lydster.

The winner of Miss Universe 2008 will receive a tiara by CAO Fine Jewelry valued at US$30 thousand dollars.