Useful link:
P.J.Joseph's Weblog On Colored Stones, Diamonds, Gem Identification, Synthetics, Treatments, Imitations, Pearls, Organic Gems, Gem And Jewelry Enterprises, Gem Markets, Watches, Gem History, Books, Comics, Cryptocurrency, Designs, Films, Flowers, Wine, Tea, Coffee, Chocolate, Graphic Novels, New Business Models, Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Energy, Education, Environment, Music, Art, Commodities, Travel, Photography, Antiques, Random Thoughts, and Things He Like.
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Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Charmed Forever
The 3-dimensional charms made by A Charming Life is spectacular. They can be worn on a bracelet, a pendant or brooch, and it's a perfect gift for any occasion. I liked it.
Reality Mining
According to Gregory Skibiski + Tony Jebara, co-founders of Sense Networks, Macrosense (the analytical tool) applies complex statistical algorithms to sift through the growing heaps of data about location and to make predictions or recommendations on various questions — where a company should put its next store, for example, or predict tourism (they can tell you how confident consumers are + tell retailers about their competitors, who’s coming in from particular neighborhoods). Other companies in reality mining include Inrix, a Microsoft spin-off + Path Intelligence (Britain).
Useful links:
www.sensenetworks.com
www.inrix.com
www.pathintelligence.com
I think the technological innovations are great but what worries me is the privacy issues.
Useful links:
www.sensenetworks.com
www.inrix.com
www.pathintelligence.com
I think the technological innovations are great but what worries me is the privacy issues.
Test Your Green-energy IQ
How much do you know about solar power? Test your green-energy IQ and learn some surprising truths @ http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/quiz/2008/jun/24/energy.usa
Le Bassin Aux Nympheas
A Claude Monet painting, Le Bassin Aux Nympheas, has been sold by Christies, London, for a record £40.9m. Painted in 1919 in Giverny in France it has been seen in public just once in the past 80 years. http://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot_details.aspx?intObjectID=5100003
Useful link:
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Lives Per Gallon
Lives Per Gallon: The True Cost of Our Oil Addiction by Terry Tamminen is an interesting book on true price of petroleum and a prescription for change. Great read.
Terry Tamminen was former chief policy advisor for California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger + he is the operating advisor to Pegasus Capital Investors + the Cullman Senior Fellow with the New America Foundation. He spends his time advising world leaders on how to design and implement climate-change solutions.
Useful links:
www.livespergallon.org
www.terrytamminen.com
Terry Tamminen was former chief policy advisor for California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger + he is the operating advisor to Pegasus Capital Investors + the Cullman Senior Fellow with the New America Foundation. He spends his time advising world leaders on how to design and implement climate-change solutions.
Useful links:
www.livespergallon.org
www.terrytamminen.com
Where To See Famous Diamonds
- Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History
www.mnh.si.edu
- Jewel House, Tower of London
www.hrp.org.uk
- Galerie d'Apollon, Louvre
www.louvre.fr
- Armoury Chamber, Kremlin
www.kremlin.museum.ru
- Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul
www.ee.bilkent.edu.tr
- Green Vault, Dresden Royal Palace, Dresden
www.skd-dresden.de
- Condé Museum, Château de Chantilly, Chantilly
www.chateaudechantilly.com
www.mnh.si.edu
- Jewel House, Tower of London
www.hrp.org.uk
- Galerie d'Apollon, Louvre
www.louvre.fr
- Armoury Chamber, Kremlin
www.kremlin.museum.ru
- Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul
www.ee.bilkent.edu.tr
- Green Vault, Dresden Royal Palace, Dresden
www.skd-dresden.de
- Condé Museum, Château de Chantilly, Chantilly
www.chateaudechantilly.com
Gregory Crewdson
Gregory Crewdson is an American photographer who is best known for elaborately staged, surreal scenes of American homes and neighborhoods. Kenneth R. Fletcher writes about the Crewdson's unique techniques or in-between moments @ http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/gregory-crewdson.html
It's just about trying to find something elusive and beautiful and mysterious in the world.
- Gregory Crewdson
Gregory Crewdson's pictures definitely look like paintings. Brilliant! I liked it.
- Gregory Crewdson
Gregory Crewdson's pictures definitely look like paintings. Brilliant! I liked it.
Gallery Of Graphic Design
I found the gallery of graphic designs @ graphic-design.tjs-labs.com intriguing.
Doorways To Dreams Fund
I found Peter Tufano's financial innovation @ http://hbswk.hbs.edu/item/5908.html educational and insightful.
Useful link:
www.d2dfund.org
Useful link:
www.d2dfund.org
Monday, June 23, 2008
The Krug Balloon
For a unique airborne + onboard 360-degree adventure-cum-experience, take the Krug balloon, the world's most expensive hot-air-balloon ride @ €50,000 = An unforgettable experience!
Useful links:
www.krug.com
www.lvmh.com
Useful links:
www.krug.com
www.lvmh.com
Expired
Expired is a 2008 comedy-drama film by Cecilia Miniucchi. A must-see film.
When you are trying to direct, they will tell you there are a lot of rules. Of course these rules are important, but in reality the way to tell a story is the way you would tell it to your friends in a cafe. And if you have a talent as a narrator, you will tell this story well. Otherwise all the technique in the world will never help you.
- Fellini
Useful links:
www.expiredthemovie.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expired
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0488535
When you are trying to direct, they will tell you there are a lot of rules. Of course these rules are important, but in reality the way to tell a story is the way you would tell it to your friends in a cafe. And if you have a talent as a narrator, you will tell this story well. Otherwise all the technique in the world will never help you.
- Fellini
Useful links:
www.expiredthemovie.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expired
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0488535
Random Thoughts
Wisdom is the art of knowing what to overlook.
- William James
Useful links:
http://wjsociety.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_James
- William James
Useful links:
http://wjsociety.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_James
Distracted
Distracted: The Erosion of Attention and the Coming Dark Age by Maggie Jackson is a thought-provoking book on the ability to focus in a distracted world. Great read.
Useful link:
http://maggie-jackson.com
I think the greatest casualty of our fluxed-up, high-tech age is attention.
Useful link:
http://maggie-jackson.com
I think the greatest casualty of our fluxed-up, high-tech age is attention.
The Diffusion Of Art Market
Economist writes about the diffusion of new riches around the globe and the current art market + the challenges @ http://www.economist.com/daily/columns/artview/displayStory.cfm?story_id=11605844
Five years ago, its millionaire buyers came from 36 countries. In 2007 that number rose to 58.
- Sothebys
Useful links:
www.sothebys.com
www.christies.com
How true!
Five years ago, its millionaire buyers came from 36 countries. In 2007 that number rose to 58.
- Sothebys
Useful links:
www.sothebys.com
www.christies.com
How true!
Sunday, June 22, 2008
In Odd We Trust
Dean Koontz’s first graphic novel, featuring a fry cook who can communicate with the dead, is out.
Useful link:
www.deankoontz.com
Useful link:
www.deankoontz.com
Laura Day
What exactly is Laura Day's expertise? Intuition. Anybody who can afford her will get 100 times their money's worth. Amazingly people believe in the value of psychic insights. It's a new frontier, really.
Useful link:
www.practicalintuition.com
Useful link:
www.practicalintuition.com
Indian Jewelry Retailer
The article on Gitanjali and the Indian jewelry retail sector @ http://www.forbes.com/magazines/global/2008/0630/070.html was interesting. I think Mehul Choksi, who serves as chairman, really want to be the number one jewelry retailer in the world. Good luck!
Useful links:
www.gitanjaligroup.com
www.gili.com
Useful links:
www.gitanjaligroup.com
www.gili.com
Obsessive Branding Disorder
OBD: Obsessive Branding Disorder: The Illusion of Business and the Business of Illusion by Lucas Conley explains how defenseless we are against advertisements. A different perspective.
Useful link:
Lucas Conley's Blog
Useful link:
Lucas Conley's Blog
Designs For Old Folks
One group that really needs community are the old folks, who don't get much attention from the wired world. I think young folks with expertise in building digital communities should help old folks connect to their families and friends. Since we have the technology and skills, what's required is simplicity and ease of use. Pay it forward.
Radioparadise
Radioparadise, which broadcasts an eclectic mix of modern, classic, and alternative rock, is commercial-free, supported entirely by donations from its listeners. A must-visit site.
Useful link:
www.radioparadise.com
Useful link:
www.radioparadise.com
Green Cemetry
Green cemetry offers families the opportunity to visit loved ones in a natural setting, to have them become part of the forest's nutrient base and to help ensure the forest remains free from development. It also offers people a place to visit. I think the green environment helps people to relieve the stressful situation. It's hard to imagine a nicer place to return your remains. I hope the concept becomes a popular choice across the world.
Useful link:
www.ecoeternity.com
Useful link:
www.ecoeternity.com
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Agustin Otegui
Agustin Otegui's futuristic concept called Nano Vent-Skin (NVS) and the design -- to wrap buildings in an organic lattice skin made up of micro wind turbines -- is brilliant. It's cutting-edge science + design + organic.
Useful links:
www.agustin-otegui.com
http://nanoventskin.blogspot.com
Useful links:
www.agustin-otegui.com
http://nanoventskin.blogspot.com
Random Thoughts
The most successful people in the business world, what they do best is manage people, or understand people, or know how to relate and deal with people. And that's what poker is all about—people.
- Tom McEvoy
- Tom McEvoy
Syngenta: The Innovative Company
Mac Margolis's interview with Mike Mack (CEO, Syngenta) @ http://www.newsweek.com/id/136231 was educational and insightful. I think Green Revolution 2.0 is overdue.
Useful link:
www.syngenta.com
Useful link:
www.syngenta.com
Expressionale Berlin 2008
Berlin is the contemporary-art hub (world-class institutes + museums + 500 galleries+) of Europe. Amazingly it's the bohemian charm that draws artists to Berlin. The expressionist movement that characterizes the city's cosmopolitan feel is very much alive and engaging. Many of the works—by current as well as early 20th-century masters—are for sale, and at prices the average art lover can afford. A must-visit.
Useful link:
www.expressionale.de
Useful link:
www.expressionale.de
Pay It Forward
Small-business owners are tapping the expertise of people they might not otherwise meet, especially those who live hundreds or thousands of miles away via online mentoring saving time by allowing people to quickly get to the point. For many mentors, who were previously mentored by others feel they need to pay it forward. Brilliant!
Useful links:
www.micromentor.org
www.mercycorps.org
www.score.org
www.imantri.com
www.aspeninstitute.org
Useful links:
www.micromentor.org
www.mercycorps.org
www.score.org
www.imantri.com
www.aspeninstitute.org
Copenhagen Consensus Conference
I found the dispatch from the 2008 Copenhagen Consensus Conference interesting and insightful. I think the experts views should be discussed and challenged. Since we live in a world of scarce resources, how can we do the most good?
Useful link:
www.copenhagenconsensus.com
Useful link:
www.copenhagenconsensus.com
Royal Game Of Ur
(via Wiki) The Royal Game of Ur refers to two game boards found in Royal Tombs of Ur by Sir Leonard Woolley in the 1920s. The two boards date from the First Dynasty of Ur, before 2600 BC, thus making the Royal Game of Ur probably the oldest set of board gaming equipment ever found. One of the two boards is exhibited in the collections of the British Museum in London. A board game known with some certainty to be older than The Royal Game of Ur is the ancient Egyptian game Senet, the existence of which possibly dates as early as the 33rd century BC. Also, recent excavations of a sixty piece set in the "Burnt City" located in Iran has shown that a very similar board game existed five thousand years ago, slightly edging out the age of the Ur set. The Royal Game of Ur was played with two sets (one black and one white) of seven markers and three pyramidal dice. The rules of the game as it was played in Mesopotamia are not known but there is a reliable reconstruction of gameplay based on a cuneiform tablet of Babylonian origin dating from 177–176 BC. It is universally agreed that the Royal Game of Ur, like Senet, is a race game. Both games may be predecessors to the present-day backgammon. A grafitto version of the game was recently discovered scratched by Assyrian guards onto one of the human-headed winged bull gate sentinels from the palace of Sargon II (721 - 705 BC) in the city of Khorsabad, now in the British Museum in London. Similar games have since been discovered on other sculptures in other museums.
Useful links:
Irving Finkel: http://www.britishmuseum.org/the_museum/about_us/staff/middle_east/irving_finkel.aspx
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1815665,00.html
Iving Finkel is the world's foremost expert on the game.
Useful links:
Irving Finkel: http://www.britishmuseum.org/the_museum/about_us/staff/middle_east/irving_finkel.aspx
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1815665,00.html
Iving Finkel is the world's foremost expert on the game.
Team Of Rivals
Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin is a multiple biography of the entire team of personal and political competitors that Abraham Lincoln put together to lead America through its greatest crisis. A great read.
Useful link:
www.doriskearnsgoodwin.com
Useful link:
www.doriskearnsgoodwin.com
Vietnam Diamond Market
I found the article on the state of the diamond industry in Vietnam @ http://english.vietnamnet.vn/biz/2008/06/789254 interesting.
Making and trading diamond jewellery proves to be profitable business. However, the fat profit made by companies is not mentioned, because this is always considered a ‘sensitive’ issue. The diamonds on sale in Vietnam come from different sources, and a big proportion of the diamonds come through unofficial channels.
How true!
Making and trading diamond jewellery proves to be profitable business. However, the fat profit made by companies is not mentioned, because this is always considered a ‘sensitive’ issue. The diamonds on sale in Vietnam come from different sources, and a big proportion of the diamonds come through unofficial channels.
How true!
Diamond Empowerment For Africa's Future
I think the new public service announcement by Russell Simmons' Diamond Empowerment Fund (DEF), titled 'Diamond Empowerment for Africa's Future', is an excellent medium to educate consumers understand that diamonds do help Africans.
Useful links:
www.diamondempowerment.org
www.simmonsjewelryco.com
www.russellsimmons.com
Useful links:
www.diamondempowerment.org
www.simmonsjewelryco.com
www.russellsimmons.com
Friday, June 20, 2008
First Stop In The New World
First Stop in the New World by David Lida is an in-depth study of Mexico city, from the high arts to the sex industry; from the dense jungle of urban politics to the interactions of everyday commerce; from one end of this five-hundred-square-mile city to the other.
Useful link:
http://davidlida.com
I think Mexico city is truly one of the world's greatest and misunderstood city on earth.
Useful link:
http://davidlida.com
I think Mexico city is truly one of the world's greatest and misunderstood city on earth.
Graphic Novel Update
Rebecca Winters Keegan writes about Hollywood's insatiable appetite for comics-fueled materials + other viewpoints @ http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1816487,00.html
Museum Of The Orient
The Museu do Oriente (Museum of the Orient) was opened in May by Portuguese President Aníbal Cavaco Silva and Prime Minister José Sócrates. In planning for nearly two decades, the $46.6 million facility was set up by the Fundação Oriente (Orient Foundation) — a Portuguese cultural organization established in the former colony of Macau in 1988 — and showcases a vast array of Asian artifacts on five floors in a magnificent Art Deco building along the Lisbon waterfront at Alcãntara. Among the Museu do Oriente's collections are many prominent pieces that have never been publicly exhibited, including rare crucifixes, snuff bottles, screens, ornaments, paintings and antiques from as far afield as East Timor, Japan, Goa, Korea and Macau (the latter meriting a section of its own). There is also a special exhibition devoted to Hindu, Buddhist, Taoist and Shinto religious objects. But art experts and historians are most excited about the reappearance of a well-known collection that has not been shown publicly for many years...... http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1815982,00.html
Useful link:
www.foriente.pt
Definitely a must-visit.
Useful link:
www.foriente.pt
Definitely a must-visit.
Club4Climate
Club4Climate has teamed up with the world leaders in environmentally sustainable dance clubs, Rotterdam’s Enviu/Doll and Sustainable Dance Club. Working on the basis that a club should be self sufficient and not a drain on the environment, the organisation has come up with the varied and interesting ways to be eco-friendly.
Useful links:
www.club4climate.com
www.sustainabledanceclub.com
Must be an interesting place to visit.
Useful links:
www.club4climate.com
www.sustainabledanceclub.com
Must be an interesting place to visit.
The Public Gallery
The Public, one of Britain’s largest and most ambitious cultural building projects, will open its doors on 28th + 29th June, 2008. A must-visit.
Useful links:
www.alsoparchitects.com
www.thepublic.com
Useful links:
www.alsoparchitects.com
www.thepublic.com
Random Thoughts
Swarovski produces glass, but sells it as if it were diamonds. We produce diamonds, but sell it as if it were glass.
- Sergei Vybornov
President, Alrosa
- Sergei Vybornov
President, Alrosa
The Three Industry Wild Cards
Chaim Even Zohar writes about Nicky Oppenheimer, Sergei Vybornov and Ian Khama + other viewpoints @ http://www.idexonline.com/portal_FullEditorial.asp
Useful links:
www.debeersgroup.com
http://eng.alrosa.ru
www.debswana.com
www.monitor.com
www.bedia.co.bw
How true!
Useful links:
www.debeersgroup.com
http://eng.alrosa.ru
www.debswana.com
www.monitor.com
www.bedia.co.bw
How true!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Random Thoughts
I always feel pressure. If you don't feel nervous, that means you don't care about how you play. I care about how I perform. I've always said the day I'm not nervous playing is the day I quit.
- Tiger Woods
www.tigerwoods.com
He was spot on.
- Tiger Woods
www.tigerwoods.com
He was spot on.
Rembrandt's Laughing Portrait
According to William Noortman (Noortman Master Paintings), who specializes in Dutch and Flemish masters, 'Rembrandt Laughing' — bought for a bargain price of $4.5 million at an English auction house in October — a self-portrait by the Dutch master himself, depicted with his head tilted back in easygoing laughter, could be worth $30 million to $40 million.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080619/ap_en_ot/art_rembrandt_laughing
Useful links:
www.noortman.com
www.rembrandthuis.nl
If it's real, then it's a rare opportunity.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080619/ap_en_ot/art_rembrandt_laughing
Useful links:
www.noortman.com
www.rembrandthuis.nl
If it's real, then it's a rare opportunity.
Gemlab Update
I found the latest research newsletter from GemLab @ http://www.gemlab.net/website/gemlab/fileadmin/user_upload/Research/Gemlab-Newsletter-06-2008.pdf educational and interesting.
Useful link:
www.gemlab.net
Useful link:
www.gemlab.net
Managing Price Increases
John Quelch offers tips on how marketers can cope with inflation and consumer sticker shock @ http://hbswk.hbs.edu/item/5957.html
Useful link:
Marketing Know: How
Brilliant!
Useful link:
Marketing Know: How
Brilliant!
Coral Reefs + Economic Value
The World Resources Institute, in collaboration with government and NGO partners in St. Lucia, Tobago and Belize, has developed an economic valuation methodology to quantify the value of coral reefs in the Caribbean more accurately. The methodology supports the evaluation of trade-offs, thereby highlighting the management and development paths which protect coral reefs, and maximize the economic contribution of coral reefs to the economy.
Useful link:
www.wri.org
Knowledge + sustainable planning = Long-term economic potential
Useful link:
www.wri.org
Knowledge + sustainable planning = Long-term economic potential
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Jewelry Camp
The Antique Jewelry and Art Conference will be held on July 11 - 13, 2008, at Hofstra University in Long Island, New York. Speakers include Diana Singer, Christie Romero, Michael Goldstein, Gus Davis, Ben Macklowe, Tom Burstein of Harry Winston, Joyce Jonas to name a few. Don't miss it.
Useful links:
www.jewelrycamp.org
www.appraisers.org
Useful links:
www.jewelrycamp.org
www.appraisers.org
Recession Proof Shoppers
I found the article on research-proof shoppers @ http://www.brandweek.com/bw/news/apparelretail/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003813502 intriguing. What drives women to buy expensive goods? I guess it must be quality, designs, service, prestige, success and confidence.
Useful links:
www.elle.com
www.brandweek.com
www.surveysampling.com
Useful links:
www.elle.com
www.brandweek.com
www.surveysampling.com
Cyd Charisse
Cyd Charisse, a former co-star of Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, has died in Los Angeles aged 87. She sang and danced with legends Gene Kelly in Singin' in the Rain, and Fred Astaire in Silk Stockings.
Useful links:
www.humorinthenews.com/cyd
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001998
Fred Astaire described Cyd Charisse as beautiful dynamite. I think he was spot on. She will be dearly missed.
Useful links:
www.humorinthenews.com/cyd
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001998
Fred Astaire described Cyd Charisse as beautiful dynamite. I think he was spot on. She will be dearly missed.
Design Thinking
Tim Brown is a British-born designer who is now CEO of the design group called Ideo, based in Silicon Valley California. He has a fascinating article, in the June Harvard Business Review, urging organisations to embrace what he calls Design Thinking.
Useful links:
www.ideo.com
http://mitworld.mit.edu/video/357
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_thinking
Useful links:
www.ideo.com
http://mitworld.mit.edu/video/357
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_thinking
Skoll World Forum
(via BBC) Every year the Said Business School at Oxford University hosts the Skoll Forum for Social Entrepreneurs, a wonderful meeting place of famous and not so famous practitioners and beneficiaries. It happens in Oxford, England, because this ancient university is where the Foundation’s founder Jeff Skoll established a department that actually teaches social entrepreneurship to business school students. He made a fortune out of in at the founding of the Internet Auction site eBay. Now he is trying to encourage more social entrepreneurship, and to get more innovation out of it. The Skoll Forum is an exhilarating place, noisy with ideas.
Useful links:
www.skollworldforum.com
www.skollfoundation.org
www.sbs.ox.ac.uk
www.ashoka.org
www.camfed.org
www.mobileactive.org
www.gatesfoundation.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_Skoll
Useful links:
www.skollworldforum.com
www.skollfoundation.org
www.sbs.ox.ac.uk
www.ashoka.org
www.camfed.org
www.mobileactive.org
www.gatesfoundation.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_Skoll
Amanda Ripley
Amanda Ripley's book, The Unthinkable: Who Survives When Disaster Strikes — and Why explains how the brain works in disasters — and how we can learn to do better.
Useful link:
www.amandaripley.com
A must-read.
Useful link:
www.amandaripley.com
A must-read.
Spencer Tunick
Spencer Tunick is an American photographer. He is best known for his installations that feature large numbers of nude people posed in artistic formations. His installations are often situated in urban locations throughout the world.
Recently more than 1,000 people took part in a Spencer Tunick installation, which took place at Blarney Castle in Cork in southern Ireland. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/7460005.stm
Useful link:
www.spencertunick.com
It must be an extraordinary experience.
Recently more than 1,000 people took part in a Spencer Tunick installation, which took place at Blarney Castle in Cork in southern Ireland. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/7460005.stm
Useful link:
www.spencertunick.com
It must be an extraordinary experience.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
New Graphic Designs From China
3030: New Graphic Design in China, edited by Hong Kong designer Javin Mo, is an interesting work (theoretical + experimental) that brings together the work of 30 designers from mainland China + their viewpoints.
Useful links:
www.3030press.com
www.milkxhake.org
Useful links:
www.3030press.com
www.milkxhake.org
Fancy Colored Diamonds Education
I found the website www.fancydiamonds.net on fancy colored diamonds educational and informative. A must-visit.
Bottlemania
Bottlemania: How Water Went on Sale and Why We Bought It by Elizabeth Royte is an informative book on an entire industry. A must-read.
I think the answer lies in marketing. Though environmentally destructive, old habits die hard.
I think the answer lies in marketing. Though environmentally destructive, old habits die hard.
The House of Viktor & Rolf
A new exhibition showcasing the work of Dutch fashion designers Viktor & Rolf opens on 18 June till 21 September 2008 @ the Barbican Art Gallery. A must-visit.
Useful links:
www.viktor-rolf.com
www.barbican.org.uk
Useful links:
www.viktor-rolf.com
www.barbican.org.uk
New Yorker Interview
Ken Auletta's interview with Eric Schmidt, the chairman and C.E.O. of Google, in San Francisco on June 11, 2008 @ http://www.newyorker.com/online/video/2008/06/16/080616_auletta/ was educational and insightful.
Green Market Geography
I found the paper written by Matthew Kahn + Ryan Vaughn on Green Market Geography (pdf) very interesting. What's amazing to me is that most people I know who are aware of green economics do not make sound changes at home. Why? I still don't know.
Useful link:
www.zimancenter.com
Useful link:
www.zimancenter.com
A Roman Glass
A glass d20 from Roman times was sold by Christies in 2003. What's intriguing is the unique markings on it, and the experts haven't established the game for which these dice were used.
Useful link:
www.christies.com
Useful link:
www.christies.com
Green Beads As Amulets.....For Luck
I found the study by researchers at the National Academy of Sciences on lucky beads worn by early agriculturalists @ http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7457755.stm intriguing.
Useful link:
www.pnas.org
We propose that the green colour mimics the green of young leaf blades, which signify germination and embody the wish for successful crops and for success in fertility.
- PNAS
How true!
Useful link:
www.pnas.org
We propose that the green colour mimics the green of young leaf blades, which signify germination and embody the wish for successful crops and for success in fertility.
- PNAS
How true!
Monday, June 16, 2008
The Chinese Affluent + Brand Preference
According to surveys conducted by MasterCard Worldwide, the affluent mainland Chinese consumers preferred jewelry brands were (1) Chow Tai Fook (2) Cartier (3) Chow Sang Sang + Hong Kong remained the most preferred shopping location.
Useful links:
www.chowtaifook.com
www.cartier.com
www.chowsangsang.com
www.mastercard.com
I think disposable income, product knowledge, education, and travel may have helped the affluent mainland Chinese to understand the difference between quality and brand.
Useful links:
www.chowtaifook.com
www.cartier.com
www.chowsangsang.com
www.mastercard.com
I think disposable income, product knowledge, education, and travel may have helped the affluent mainland Chinese to understand the difference between quality and brand.
India's Next Wave
William Nobrega has an interesting overview on India's media and entertainment, private education, infrastructure, renewable energy companies and the rapidly growing middle class @ http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/jun2008/gb20080612_463518.htm?chan=search
Useful link:
www.conradgroupinc.com
Innovative solutions = Increased demand = Growth
Useful link:
www.conradgroupinc.com
Innovative solutions = Increased demand = Growth
Art + Design Scenes
The definitive, easy-to-use guide to the art and design scenes in Tokyo (Tokyo Art Beat) + New York (NY Art Beat). A must-visit.
Useful links:
www.tokyoartbeat.com
www.nyartbeat.com
Useful links:
www.tokyoartbeat.com
www.nyartbeat.com
Random Thoughts
Real leaders touch people. They get in their skin, filling their hearts with inspiration, courage, and hope. In the future, the best leaders will combine touch with the ability to quickly sort, assess, and seize the power of all the ideas the Internet brings and the voices it unleashes. And that will change business for everyone.
- Jack + Suzy Welch
www.welchway.com
- Jack + Suzy Welch
www.welchway.com
Pocket Movies
Pocket movies are interesting (intimate/engaging) because mobile phones can go anywhere, the images snatched from real life are rough and ready. They tell a unique story. The results are startling. So what revolution is the mobile phone going to bring? Stylistic innovation! I think it's an interesting tool that allows you to show people what you've got. I believe Paris has played it's role in this new revolutionary style. Other cities are catching up.
Useful links:
www.festivalpocketfilms.fr
www.pocketfilms.jp
www.pocketpicks.co.uk
www.sundance.org
Useful links:
www.festivalpocketfilms.fr
www.pocketfilms.jp
www.pocketpicks.co.uk
www.sundance.org
Ballet Précieux
Van Cleef & Arpels's 'Ballet Précieux', a line based on the George Balanchine-choreographed ballet Jewels, a unique collection centered on four central themes: the ballet, emerald, ruby and diamond are so beautiful, they literally capture the dancers' soul. The idea of movement being translated into piece of jewelry appeals to everyone. I think it's fascinating.
Useful links:
www.vancleef-arpels.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8yH4xgWJ8k
Useful links:
www.vancleef-arpels.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8yH4xgWJ8k
Who Owns Antiquity?
Who Owns Antiquity?: Museums and the Battle over Our Ancient Heritage by James Cuno is an interesting book on cultural property matters, a topic of great importance to archaeologists, collectors, dealers, and museum curators. A must-read.
Heard On The Street
If I only knew the winning probabilities of the horses, I wouldn't need to know winners; I'd be making a fortune anyway.
Brandywine River Museum
The Brandywine River Museum holds spectacular art collections of NC Wyeth, Andrew Wyeth and Jamie Wyeth. They are often called the first family of American art. A must-visit.
Useful link:
www.brandywinemuseum.org
Useful link:
www.brandywinemuseum.org
Hua Hin Jazz Festival 2008
The Hua Hin Jazz Festival 2008 - June 13th - 14th sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand was spectacular.
Useful link:
www.huahinafterdark.com/hua-hin-jazz-festival.htm
Useful link:
www.huahinafterdark.com/hua-hin-jazz-festival.htm
Antony Todd
A Diamond Is Forever Floral Spectacular, designed by floral designer Antony Todd, with over 24,000 long stem red roses spelling out A Diamond Is Forever, commissioned in celebration of Mother's Day was stunningly beautiful. Everyone who picked up a rose got a code that they could then enter online at www.adiamondisforever.com for a chance to win a 3 Stone Diamond Necklace worth $5,000.
Useful link:
www.antonytodd.com
Brilliant idea. I liked it.
Useful link:
www.antonytodd.com
Brilliant idea. I liked it.
The Art Of Film Music
The Art Of Film Music by George Burt is a great book on film scoring techniques. Enjoy it.
Jane Seymour's Open Heart Concept
I really liked Jane Seymour's Open Heart Necklace and Original Art concept because of its simplicity and functionality.
Useful links:
www.friendsofjane.com
Useful links:
www.friendsofjane.com
Renewable Petroleum Technology
Here is what LS9 Inc. says about renewable petroleum technology @ http://www.ls9.com/technology I also found Chris Ayres article @ http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/environment/article4133668.ece
interesting as well. I think these breakthroughs definitely offer a commercially attractive path to sustainibility.
Useful link:
www.ls9.com
interesting as well. I think these breakthroughs definitely offer a commercially attractive path to sustainibility.
Useful link:
www.ls9.com
Saturday, June 14, 2008
The World Of Caffeine
The World of Caffeine: The Science and Culture of the World's Most Popular Drug by Bennett Alan Weinberg + Bonnie K. Bealer is an interesting book that covers history, science, commerce, and other aspects of caffeine culture. I liked it.
Useful links:
www.ico.org
http://coffeescience.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caffeine
Useful links:
www.ico.org
http://coffeescience.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caffeine
Shifting Economy
Michael Novogratz talks with Nick Paumgarten about the long-term effects of a shifting economy from 'Stories from the Near Future,' at the 2008 New Yorker Conference @
http://www.newyorker.com/online/video/conference/2008/novogratz
Useful link:
www.fortressinv.com
Brilliant!
http://www.newyorker.com/online/video/conference/2008/novogratz
Useful link:
www.fortressinv.com
Brilliant!
Buying Diamonds Online
I found Businessweek's video on what to know about diamonds on the web @ http://feedroom.businessweek.com/index.jsp?fr_story=e22da4a379200015f0494c9053bb8661bd5066ee interesting. In fact, I liked it.
Bushveld Complex + The Diamond Link
National Science Foundation's new research in South Africa shows possible explanation for how Bushveld platinum ores were created + the unique encapsulation of platinum group elements as mineral inclusions in diamonds + the origin theory + other viewpoints @ http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=111695&govDel=USNSF_51
Useful links:
www.nsf.gov
www.nature.com
www.ciw.edu
www.uct.ac.za
Useful links:
www.nsf.gov
www.nature.com
www.ciw.edu
www.uct.ac.za
The Water Story
Susan Berfield writes about T. Boone Pickens's new business interests + other viewpoints @ http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/08_25/b4089040017753.htmchan=top+news_top+news+index_top+story
Useful links:
www.boonepickens.com
www.bpcap.net
There are people who will buy the water when they need it. And the people who have the water want to sell it. That's the blood, guts, and feathers of the thing.
- T Boone Pickens
How true!
Useful links:
www.boonepickens.com
www.bpcap.net
There are people who will buy the water when they need it. And the people who have the water want to sell it. That's the blood, guts, and feathers of the thing.
- T Boone Pickens
How true!
Appraisal Organizations In The US
Each appraisal organizations in the U.S has its own rules and standards that are continually being updated.
Useful links:
www.appraisalfoundation.org
www.americangemsociety.org
www.appraisers.org
www.isa-appraisers.org
www.najaappraisers.com
www.appraisersassoc.org
http://accreditedgemologists.org
Useful links:
www.appraisalfoundation.org
www.americangemsociety.org
www.appraisers.org
www.isa-appraisers.org
www.najaappraisers.com
www.appraisersassoc.org
http://accreditedgemologists.org
Friday, June 13, 2008
California World Fest
California WorldFest features eight stages of music and dance from around the world, camping with family and friends, workshops, international food, fine crafts, and the renowned children's program + specially selected independent films.
Useful link:
www.worldfest.net
Don't miss it!
Useful link:
www.worldfest.net
Don't miss it!
The Necessary Revolution
The Necessary Revolution: How Individuals And Organizations Are Working Together to Create a Sustainable World by Peter M. Senge + Bryan Smith + Sara Schley + Joe Laur + Nina Kruschwitz is an interesting book that discusses the state of the business today and how individuals and corporations could innovate toward a more sustainable world.
Useful links:
www.solonline.org
www.presence.net
www.presencing.com
In a time of rapid change, I think we need unique qualities to be adaptive and productive.
Useful links:
www.solonline.org
www.presence.net
www.presencing.com
In a time of rapid change, I think we need unique qualities to be adaptive and productive.
Global Solar
Bryan Walsh writes about Global Solar, and their unique technology (turning sunlight into electricity) + other viewpoints @ http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1813954,00.html
Useful link:
www.globalsolar.com
A limitless supply of clean, cheap energy--if thin film can deliver that, who wouldn't believe? Great technology.
Useful link:
www.globalsolar.com
A limitless supply of clean, cheap energy--if thin film can deliver that, who wouldn't believe? Great technology.
The Vilnius Project
The government of Lithuania + Zaha Hadid will be constructing a joint Guggenheim/Hermitage satellite in Vilnius.
Useful links:
www.guggenheim.org
www.hermitagemuseum.org
www.zaha-hadid.com
The Guggenheim universe is definitely expanding.
Useful links:
www.guggenheim.org
www.hermitagemuseum.org
www.zaha-hadid.com
The Guggenheim universe is definitely expanding.
Anna Bullus
London-based designer Anna Bullus's designs are innovative, simple, in fact, they are brilliant. I liked it.
Useful link:
www.annabullusdesign.com
Useful link:
www.annabullusdesign.com
Doing Diamond Business In South Africa
Chaim Even Zohar writes about issues and concerns in the diamond sector in South Africa + other viewpoints @ http://www.idexonline.com/portal_FullEditorial.asp
I think Chaim was spot on. Transfer of skills, know-how and contacts are important factors that sustains the diamond economy. If capital and skills are removed from the industry, then there is something wrong with the whole 'new order' concept.
I think Chaim was spot on. Transfer of skills, know-how and contacts are important factors that sustains the diamond economy. If capital and skills are removed from the industry, then there is something wrong with the whole 'new order' concept.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Peeling Natural Pearls
Kari Anderson writes:
We don't hear much about pearl peeling today, but it was a common practice when natural pearls were the only source of these precious gems. I often hear it when folks talk about preparing the natural pearls from the Mississippi River here in Muscatine for jewelry. Almost all pearls are in perfect condition for setting when they are found; all that needs to be done is to rub them with a damp or moist cloth or with a powder of finely pulverized small or small pearls, and they are then ready for the succeeding processes. If there are any blemishes, these can be removed by peeling pearls or "faking," although few fine pearls require any such treatments; and then the gems may be drilled, strung, and set, and all that is necessary for their preservation is due care and attention. Pearls are frequently injured in opening the shells or in removal of the outer layers around the true pearly nacre. Both the Chinese and the Sulu fishermen are very clever in the art of pearl peeing and pearl improving. The method of peeling pearls is called "faking," although it is a perfectl legitimate operation. All it requires is a very sharp knife, a set of files, and a powder obtained by grinding pearls or pearl shells............. http://www.karipearls.com/peeling-pearls.html
Useful link:
www.karipearls.com
Thanks Kari for the excellent info.
We don't hear much about pearl peeling today, but it was a common practice when natural pearls were the only source of these precious gems. I often hear it when folks talk about preparing the natural pearls from the Mississippi River here in Muscatine for jewelry. Almost all pearls are in perfect condition for setting when they are found; all that needs to be done is to rub them with a damp or moist cloth or with a powder of finely pulverized small or small pearls, and they are then ready for the succeeding processes. If there are any blemishes, these can be removed by peeling pearls or "faking," although few fine pearls require any such treatments; and then the gems may be drilled, strung, and set, and all that is necessary for their preservation is due care and attention. Pearls are frequently injured in opening the shells or in removal of the outer layers around the true pearly nacre. Both the Chinese and the Sulu fishermen are very clever in the art of pearl peeing and pearl improving. The method of peeling pearls is called "faking," although it is a perfectl legitimate operation. All it requires is a very sharp knife, a set of files, and a powder obtained by grinding pearls or pearl shells............. http://www.karipearls.com/peeling-pearls.html
Useful link:
www.karipearls.com
Thanks Kari for the excellent info.
Indian Art Auctions Update
Kishore Singh has an interesting update on art auctions in India @ http://www.business-standard.com/common/news_article.php?leftnm=10&bKeyFlag=BO&autono=325896
Useful links:
www.bidandhammer.com
www.saffronart.com
www.christies.com
www.sothebys.com
www.harmonyindia.org
I think Indian art is on the move and keep watching to see which way prices go.
Useful links:
www.bidandhammer.com
www.saffronart.com
www.christies.com
www.sothebys.com
www.harmonyindia.org
I think Indian art is on the move and keep watching to see which way prices go.
Artbeads
Artbead caters to individual artists + bead stores + professional designers worldwide. A must-visit.
Useful link:
www.artbeads.com
Useful link:
www.artbeads.com
Changing Africa
A new atlas charts Africa's changing landscape over recent decades @ http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/jun/10/climatechange.conservation
Useful link:
http://www.unep.org/dewa/africa/AfricaAtlas
Shocking, really.
Useful link:
http://www.unep.org/dewa/africa/AfricaAtlas
Shocking, really.
Afghanistan's Crown Jewels
Jeffrey Bartholet writes about the mystery 'keyholders' who secretly protected Afghanistan's crown jewels through all the turbulence and chaos of war and looting + other viewpoints @ http://www.newsweek.com/id/140158
Useful links:
www.nationalgeographic.com
www.nga.gov
Useful links:
www.nationalgeographic.com
www.nga.gov
Bolzano's Museum Of Modern And Contemporary Art
William Lee Adams has an interesting update on Bolzano's Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art @ http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1811690,00.html
Useful links:
www.museion.it
www.ksv-network.de
It's breathtaking and beautiful! A must-visit.
Useful links:
www.museion.it
www.ksv-network.de
It's breathtaking and beautiful! A must-visit.
The Man Who Loved China
The Man Who Loved China: The Fantastic Story of the Eccentric Scientist Who Unlocked the Mysteries of the Middle Kingdom by Simon Winchester is a fascinating book about the bigger picture of the rise and future of the largest nation on Earth. Great read.
Useful link:
www.simonwinchester.com
Useful link:
www.simonwinchester.com
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Onassis Jewels
Jewels belonging to the daughter of Greek shipping tycoon, Aristotle Onassis will be auctioned by Christies in London. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7447560.stm
Useful link:
www.christies.com
Useful link:
www.christies.com
The World's Best Places To Live 2008
According to Mercer Consulting's annual roundup of the global cities with the best quality of life, Zurich once again comes out on top, followed jointly by Vienna (2), Geneva (2), then Vancouver (4) and Auckland (5). The survey also identifies those cities with the highest personal safety ranking based on internal stability, crime, effectiveness of law enforcement and relationships with other countries. Luxembourg ranks highest for personal safety; Baghdad, the lowest.
Useful link:
www.mercer.com
Useful link:
www.mercer.com
Roy Lichtenstein: The Painter
'Roy Lichtenstein: Girls' show continues through June 28, 2008 at the Gagosian Gallery, 980 Madison Avenue, near 77th Street, New York. Don't miss it!
Useful links:
www.lichtensteinfoundation.org
www.gagosian.com
The show is terrific. I think Roy Lichtenstein adored women.
Useful links:
www.lichtensteinfoundation.org
www.gagosian.com
The show is terrific. I think Roy Lichtenstein adored women.
Heard On The Street
Q: How do you make money in the market?
A: Nothing could be simpler: buy low, sell high.
Q: How can I learn to do that?
A: Ahhhh…that takes a lifetime.
A: Nothing could be simpler: buy low, sell high.
Q: How can I learn to do that?
A: Ahhhh…that takes a lifetime.
Takashi Murakami + His Students
Sonia Zjawinski has an interesting update on Takashi Murakami's students: Ai Yamaguchi + Erina Matsui + Chiho Aoshima, and their profiles, styles + other viewpoints @ http://www.wired.com/culture/art/magazine/16-06/pl_arts
Useful links:
www.takashimurakami.com
www.ninyu.com
www.tokyoartbeat.com
http://the-artists.org
Useful links:
www.takashimurakami.com
www.ninyu.com
www.tokyoartbeat.com
http://the-artists.org
We Think
We-think: The Power of Mass Creativity by Charles Leadbeater is a fascinating and thought-provoking book on the pros and cons of growing communities on the web. I liked it.
Useful links:
www.wethinkthebook.net
www.charlesleadbeater.net
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiP79vYsfbo
Useful links:
www.wethinkthebook.net
www.charlesleadbeater.net
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiP79vYsfbo
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Money For Nothing
Money for Nothing: One Man's Journey Through the Dark Side of Lottery Millions by Edward Ugel shows how difficult it can be to cope with windfall wealth. A personal memoir of greed and hope.
Useful link:
www.edwardugel.com
Our salespeople were lottery winners — we just never bought tickets. Selling to the winners was like selling to myself.
- Edward Ugel
How true!
Useful link:
www.edwardugel.com
Our salespeople were lottery winners — we just never bought tickets. Selling to the winners was like selling to myself.
- Edward Ugel
How true!
Carbon Calculators
I found Carolyn Fry's article Carbon Calculators @ http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/feb/19/carbon.web interesting. As she rightly put it, if enough people begin cutting their carbon footprint now, the CO2 saving will soon stack up, whichever you calculate it. Thanks Carolyn for the excellent info.
Useful links:
www.carbonfootprint.com
http://actonco2.direct.gov.uk
www.resurgence.org
www.climatecare.org
www.carbonneutral.com
www.chooseclimate.org
www.transportdirect.info
www.electricityinfo.org
http://coinet.org.uk
Useful links:
www.carbonfootprint.com
http://actonco2.direct.gov.uk
www.resurgence.org
www.climatecare.org
www.carbonneutral.com
www.chooseclimate.org
www.transportdirect.info
www.electricityinfo.org
http://coinet.org.uk
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