A priceless marble, platinum and diamond sculpture of an olive tree has been previewed at the Venice Film Festival.

The item - entitled Ulivo Bianco (White Olive Tree) - went on display for the first time as the World Diamond Group Platinum Award for friendship between nations was presented to Indian actress Preity Zinta.

Created by Agatino Cappella, artistic director at the World Diamond Group, the piece features 3,333g of platinum, which represent the branches and leaves.

They are set atop a hand-sculptured block of Carrara marble, while the olive tree also boasts 3,003 diamonds.

After debuting in Venice, the Ulivo Bianco will head to Palazzo Lascaris in Turin before it sets off on a world tour.

The olive tree was chosen as it is thought to symbolise peace and light, while its oil is one of the main ingredients Mediterranean cooking.

Platinum is thought to represent these perfectly as it is the "expression of purity, incorruptibility and eternity".

Source:

The World Diamond Group Platinum Award for friendship between nations (20/09/11)

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