You have probably heard of instances of pet owners spoiling their pets, but have you ever seriously thought of giving a dog a diamond? A well known scripture in Matthew 7:6 says not to “throw pearls before swine“, and as scientific studies have shown pigs are thought to be smarter than any cat or dog walking around today. So then how then does one rationalize the idea of giving a dog or a cat (or any other type of animal) a diamond-encrusted gift?  Some Internet companies are jumping on the bandwagon and are offering diamond jewelry products exclusively designed for the wealthy pet owner-for his or her pets. That’s right, now Fido can sparkle just the same as the beautiful Chopard-sporting, diamond-clad actress Kate Winslet. (Though for the record, Ms. Winslet looks far better in diamonds than your dog)

Some retailers are selling products for pets that are described as the “same high quality components” found in opulent jewelry collections meant for humans. Some for sale animal jewelry features 14 karat gold, diamond pieces, as well as other high-priced gemstones. What type of items feature these diamond pieces? After all, it’s not like Lady and Tramp can wear rings or earrings, right? Most animals are sensitive about foreign objects on their skin; they’re not very fond of piercings or tattoos. True, nonetheless dogs and cats can still carry diamonds in their sweaters and coats. Dogs and cats can still admire their diamond-studded bed, diamond-coated collars and ID tags and even diamond doggy bracelets. Some dogs and cats may even sport a mini-tiara with high carat stones!

Is there such a thing as envy among domesticated pets? Don’t kid yourself-pets can display affection and show many “moods” similar to what they observe coming from their own human owners. Pets who are adorned in comfortable clothing with diamond stones can “feel” how privileged they are-or at least sense how much trouble the owner is willing to go through to pamper them. Though mankind has believed that pets simulate expressions of joy or sorrow in hopes of interacting with humans, many scientists are now speculating that it is possible that animals have emotional capacity. After all, many pet owners would be quick to point out that they can observe sadness or even depression in a pet when something they like is taken from them, whether that is a human companion, youngling or fellow quadruped. Therefore it’s safe to assume that if we derive joy from adorning our animals with diamonds, then the animal itself will mirror our delight.

Of course, pet jewelry is primarily motivated by the desire for a higher human lifestyle, not necessarily for the benefit of the bit. Still, even if you buy your dog a diamond-encrusted sweater, expect that mutt to be envious of the dog who recently received a 52-carat diamond dog collar worth $1.8 million. The Amour Amour collection is one of five exclusive designs in an expensive line of designer diamond dog collars. This famous collar (as of yet the most expensive dog collar ever made) was said to include 1,600 hand-set diamonds with a seven carat D-IF brilliant cut center diamond. The best of these products can easily sell for half a million dollars.

Dog diamond jewelry is not to be confused with dog-themed jewelry for human beings. There are many diamond products (such as rings, earrings and bracelets) that may feature a dog likeness, or may even be used for dog training, such as diamond-encrusted dog whistles. There even a new option (introduced in Japan) for cremating deceased pets and putting their ashes inside a diamond ring or pendant.

This may sound like a new thought to Western civilization (no, Japan is not where they eat dogs) but it is quite the spark of inspiration for the pet lover-at least after the initial macabre feeling wears off. How else can you remember a pet for all time, even after it departs from this world? By wearing a special diamond ring dedicated to its memory, officially certified as the final resting place for your Best Friend. This would be especially appealing to an individual deeply interested in the afterlife and alternative spirituality. Why bury a beloved pet in the ground when its spirit can follow you around for the rest of eternity?

This may sound far-fetched but if you still doubt the rights of pets then it’s time to get in touch with reality. Remember when the late Leona Helmsley specified in her will that her White Maltese dog named Trouble would receive a $12 million dollar trust fund? Helmsley specifically ordered that her dog be allowed to continue living an opulent life and then be buried alongside her in a mausoleum. Here is proof that animal rights are slowly but surely being pioneered in America.

Then again, it kind of makes you wonder why some animals are born into poverty (or eaten without trial) and others are given $12 million-which is more money than some washed up celebrities currently have. Sad. Nevertheless, diamond jewelry for pets is a sentimental trend for the rich and famous.