In 1825 Paul Coalson purchased 750 acres of land in Georgia for one dollar an acre.  This began a long and interesting history for the property, which is now the historic Coalson Plantation & Inn located in Thomasville, Georgia. 

It is believed that Coalson built the original main house- which remains the core of the inn today.  After serving as a cotton plantation during the Civil War, the property was transformed into a hunting resort by new owner Howard Melville Hanna, a shipping-oil-steel magnate.  The property stayed in the Hanna family for years which saw the additions of the Pool House and The Showboat Theater, where the first private screening of the classic film Gone with the Wind was held.

Today, the Coalson Plantation & Inn offers luxury that recalls the elegance of a past era.  Among the 33 rooms are truly unique accommodations including the Melrose Suite - the former bedroom of Howard Melville Hanna, the regal Winnstead Suite, and the romantic Hibernia Cottage.  Blended with the charms of the past are the amenities of today, with an indoor pool, tennis courts and fitness center.  Mr. Coalson's $750 has certainly been stretched into a priceless luxury experience.

Now, that expereince offered by the luxury property is on the market. Currenly listed at $9,875,000 by Harry Norman Realtors, the Coalson Plantation & Inn is a truly unique and special piece of luxury real estate.

Special care goes into the creation of the world's celebrated architectural structures.  Over 1 million tiles cover the series of concrete shells that give the Sydney Opera House its signature look.  Currently under construction, the innovative Chicago Spire features turns in the structure that will make each luxury residence in the tower unique. 

Architectural icons inspire in many ways, and have moved diamond company Hearts on Fire to create limited-edition pieces of jewelry based on elements of famous landmarks.  Counting a necklace mimicking the sails of the Sydney Opera House and earrings with strings of diamonds replicating the twists of The Chicago Spire, the Hearts on Fire Architectural Collection is comprised of 17 exquisite pieces.  The photo above shows the Ceremonious bracelet, a take on Beijing's National Stadium, or the "Bird's Nest" as it was affectionately called during the recently completed Beijing Olympics. 

View the entire Architectural Collection here.  Maybe you can find a favorite icon of yours to dangle from your ears, display on your neck, or wrap your wrist.

Ireland is famous for having many centuries-old castles and ancient monuments, and is a popular destination for tourists who wish to experience significant relics of the past.   Offering more than a vacation are two amazing luxury castles currently on the market in the Emerald Isle - each providing a different brand of elegance.

Among several positive traits, Ireland is known for its intriguing past as well as spectacular scenery.  The gorgeous landscape and rich history of the country are both beautifully on display in the momentous Kinnitty Castle.  The structure dates back to the 1200s, and has been passed between many notable families throughout the centuries.  In the 1990s it was transformed into a luxury hotel with range of leisure activities offered on the grounds.  Among many other features, the renovated Neo-Gothic castle includes 37 en-suite bedrooms, two bars and a banquet hall.  The history can be felt throughout and can now be purchased for €9,000,000.

Though the moat out front may not suggest it, An Culu is a more contemporary luxury castle.  It was recently built on 5 acres (2.02 hectares) on the shores of Kenmare Bay, with wonderful views over the water to the Caha Mountains on the horizon.  In keeping with the castle theme, there are quality hardwood fixtures and detailed plaster work to go along with the stone turrets and drawbridge providing passage over the moat.  Decidedly more modern features include a state-of-the-art music system, an elevator and contemporary kitchen design.  Stunning An Culu is currently priced at €11,000,000.

Both premier pieces of Ireland luxury real estate are listed by Knight Frank Ganly Walters.

With our times now filled with digital assistants like cell phones to PDAs, many people-on-the-go are choosing to forego wearing a wristwatch.  Some view a watch as pointless- why outfit yourself with a watch when you can just check the time on your phone or Blackberry used to track your hectic schedule? 

In my view, however, the wristwatch will be spared the same fate as the sundial.  Elegant timepieces are more than just functional; they are an expression of personal style.  A fine timepiece wrapping your wrist can also signify a special status- especially if that watch were as exclusive as the latest Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti watch. The luxury brands come together in one exceptional piece, paying tribute to the new Bugatti Veyron Faubourg Par Hermes car, with its chassis-like construction and leather band.  The tilted watch face makes it possible for a luxury car driver to check the time without removing their hands from the wheel or tilting their head. 

Only 20 of the remarkable timepieces are available in 18 carat rose or brushed white gold. The superior craftsmanship and ultra-exclusivity is reflected in the watch's $233,900 price.  Find out more at Parmigiani Fleurier.