It is said that 'diamonds are a girl's best friend," but looks like money lender, Datta Phuge from Pimpri in India believes that gold holds the same charm as diamonds. To ring in the New Year, Phuge has splurged on a gold shirt that cost him about $230,000, according to the Los Angeles Times. And the reason behind it? To Impress women and also as an investment.

Made by a team of 15 goldsmiths, who toiled over the creation for two weeks putting in 16 hours of work daily, the shirt is sure to dazzle anyone with its bling. The garish shirt is designed on an imported velvet base and features intricate thread work. The six buttons are made of Swarovski crystals and it also comes with cuffs and a belt made from the leftover gold.

"I know I am not the best looking man in the world but surely no woman could fail to be dazzled by this shirt?" he told an Indian newspaper, the Pune Mirror. "The gold shirt has been one of my dreams. It will be an embellishment to my reputation as the 'Gold man of Pimpri'"

Gold is not only a good investment but also considered a sign of wealth and financial security in the country.

"People buy cars and go on holidays abroad," he added. "For me, gold is the ultimate passion. That is the reason I have spent a whopping amount of money on the shirt."

Phuge has also ordered a custom made gold case for his Nokia phone. And he doesn't seem to be worried about the safety of his possessions. "I have my own security system in place. I always move around with bodyguards," he said.