So, how do you make your iPhone stand out among all the others?  Simple, coat it in gold!

Goldstriker, who brought to you the precious metal iPods, has coated the iPhone in your choice of 24K for $1,500 or 18K White Gold for $1,700

Still not pricey enough for you?  Austrian designer and jeweler Peter Aloisson has created a diamond studded version of the iPhone with a $176,000 price tag.

So what’s the point of all these devices with diamonds, gold and other precious metals?  Do people actually buy these items?  If they do, are they actually used or put in a safety deposit box somewhere?  The iPhone is just the latest gadget to undergo this super expensive face lift.  You can also find luxury iPods, flip phones, chess sets, pens, radios, even a 24K gold cigar, all embellished with diamonds, sapphires, and all manner of precious metals.

The most expensive cell phone out there you ask?  OK, so maybe you didn’t ask, but I’ll tell you anyway.  Coming in at a whopping, checkbook melting price tag of $1.2 Million is the GoldVish Le Million.  This ugly device has been certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the most expensive cell phone in the world.  It is made out of 18-carat white gold and features 1,800 diamonds totaling 120 carats.

Personally, I think these items are just a way for the ridiculously rich to flaunt their fortunes in front of others.  What are your thoughts on these devices?  If you had a “Richie Rich” amount of disposable income, would you consider purchasing one?  I know I wouldn’t.  Would you use it or display it?