Jewelry Story Contest

Tell a favourite jewellery story, earn $500!
http://www.commodityonline.com/news/Tell-a-favourite-jewellery-story-earn-$500!-13959-3-1.html

Useful links:
http://shopping.schubachstore.com
http://blog.schubachstore.com

Brilliant idea. I liked it.

Diamond Industry Update

A Time to Make Decisions
http://www.idexonline.com/portal_FullEditorial.asp

Useful links:
www.dtc.com
www.economics.harvard.edu/faculty/rogoff
http://economix.blogs.nytimes.com/tag/kenneth-s-rogoff

Spot on. The dealers I know are in a feel good spin/state of mind. They think 2009 will be the year of recovery. We shall wait and see. Thank you Chaim.

Black Diamond Promotion

Black Diamond Ski Package Features Black Diamonds
http://www.luxist.com/2009/01/03/black-diamond-ski-package-features-black-diamonds

Useful link:
www.northstarattahoe.com

I thought it was a brilliant PR.

American Pop

American Pop is about a family and it's complex relationship with music. A must see for everyone, really.

Useful links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Pop
www.ralphbakshi.com
www.imdb.com/title/tt0082009

The Fifth Discipline

The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of the Learning Organization by Peter M. Senge is a fascinating book about growth, improvement and continuous development. A must read.

Useful link:

www.solonline.org

Hope Diamond Update

Who Cut the Hope Diamond?
http://gemwiseblogspotcom.blogspot.com

Useful links:
www.secretsofthegemtrade.com
www.graffdiamonds.com
www.museumdiamonds.com
http://mineralsciences.si.edu/abstracts/farges.htm

Educational + Interesting. Thank you Richard.

One Of A Kind Jewelry

Ordinary jewelry bugging you? Try this
http://sundaygazettemail.com/News/200812270539

Useful link:
http://wildscape.com

A truly amazing story. Who would have thought that an aquatic insect would be able to creative a spectacularly beautiful piece of art.

Portraiture Now

Martin Schoeller/Steve Pyke's exhibition Portraiture Now: Feature Photography was brilliant. I liked it.

Useful links:
www.martinschoeller.com
www.pyke-eye.com

James Surowiecki Viewpoint

Cheat, Pray, Love
http://www.newyorker.com/talk/financial/2009/01/12/090112ta_talk_surowiecki

Discovering what the crooks have been up to is disillusioning, but not as disillusioning as coming to terms with what the so-called honest people did. In David Mamet’s movie “House of Games,” the grifter played by Joe Mantegna explains to a former mark, “It’s called a confidence game. Why? Because you give me your confidence? No. Because I give you mine.” So the bankers gave us their confidence, in the form of mortgages and other forms of credit, and we gave them ours. This culture of credulity did plenty of damage to the economy, but now it has given way to something even more corrosive; namely, endemic mistrust. Because if there’s one thing worse than too much confidence it’s not enough. Fraud impoverishes a few; fear impoverishes the many. As long as mistrust prevails, people will keeping pulling money out of the system—sometimes even at gunpoint.
- James Surowiecki

James, I completely agree. You were spot on.

Consumer Electronics Association

Tech fair offers greener vision
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7815219.stm

Useful links:
www.ce.org
www.greenergadgets.com
www.cesweb.org

Green-thinking is definitely becoming a purchasing factor + I would pay more for green if the info were easy-to-understand, affordable and functional.

Jeff Scher Viewpoint

'You Won’t Remember This Either'
http://scher.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/06/you-wont-remember-this-either

Useful links:
http://scher.blogs.nytimes.com
http://fezfilms.net

The film reminded me of my childhood days. I loved it. Thanks Jeff.

Technology Metals

We are living in the age of technology metals
http://www.commodityonline.com/news/We-are-living-in-the-age-of-technology-metals-13893-3-1.html

Useful link:
www.theaureport.com

The information on rare earth metals/application was interesting. The issue is how much can human civilization produce of something in a given year. Thank you Jack for the insightful report.

Modified Italian Masterworks

Old Italian Masterworks Made Young
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123128216464658831.html

Useful links:
www.firenzemusei.it
www.palazzo-medici.it

It's really amazing to see the effects of diagnostic technologies and the impact in art restoration. Donatello's 'David' + Raphael's 'La Madonna del Cardellino' looked stunningly beautiful after the treatment/enhancement. Thank you Francis for the interesting report.

The Fleeting Beauty Of Snowflakes

The Science of Snowflakes
http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1869394_1820511,00.html

Useful links:
www.its.caltech.edu/~atomic
www.its.caltech.edu/~atomic/snowcrystals

The fleeting beauty of snowflakes are indescribable. Thanks Ken. I loved it.

Pearl Tender

The Dubai Pearl Exchange will open a private tender, an invitation-only event on February 12-16, 2009. The Pearl Tender will showcase world's rarest natural/cultured pearls to an international audience. Go to www.dpe.ae for further info.

Useful links:
www.paspaley.com
www.robertwan.com.cn
www.jewelmer.com
www.dmcc.ae

The Essential Guide To Memo Transactions

The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) + The Jewelers Board of Trade (JBT) have released a new publication, 'The Essential Guide to Memo Transactions'. It covers relevant law and basic information on creating/filing the necessary documentation to help to protect your goods traded on memo.

Useful links:
www.jvclegal.org
www.jewelersboard.com

Sand Collectors

So Much to Learn About the Oceans From Sand
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/06/science/06prof.html?8dpc

Useful links:
www.coas.oregonstate.edu
www.argussoftware.com
www.sandcollectors.org
www.usgs.gov

Dr Holman's sand sample collections were interesting. I had no idea one could collect so many samples from different parts of the world. Thanks Cornelia.

Random Thoughts

We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.

- Kurt Vonnegut
www.vonnegut.com

Art For Art's Sake

Art for art's sake; money for God's sake
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/visual_arts/article5452031.ece

For art is a powerful and intoxicating addiction to creativity. No artist ever really takes a day off. To create something that wasn't there before, to make a slice of the imaginary real and to get lost in the focused intensity of it may well be the ultimate joy.
- Ken Russell

Today it takes a lot of courage to be an artist. Ken, you were spot on.

Diet For A Small Planet

Diet for a Small Planet by Frances Moore Lappe is an insightful book with helpful ideas. Being a vegetarian it gave me a whole new way of looking at food and the impact + it contains something for everyone, really. A must read.

Useful link:

www.smallplanet.org

Indian Jewelry Update

India's jewellery industry not affected by meltdown
http://www.commodityonline.com/news/Indias-jewellery-industry-not-affected-by-meltdown-13853-3-1.html

Useful link:
www.gjf.in

I think the Indian jewelers will find their business in rural/small towns than in urban areas. That's where the numbers are because of marriage + investment concepts. If the price of gold is sweet, Indian jewelers will witness real growth + make tons of money.

The Army Experience

I was intrigued by the US Army's strategy of enlisting new recruits via home video games, direct marketing promotions and recruitment-themed music videos. Even though video games may not accurately convey the combat experience, but still it's a great learning lab, a unique way to interact with kids and find out what they're interested in. I liked the concept, and it wouldn't be a bad idea to replicate the so-called 'lab experience' in education and business.

Useful link:
www.thearmyexperience.com

Design + Depression

Design loves a Depression
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/01/05/news/04cannell.php

Useful links:
www.establishedandsons.com
www.marcelwanders.com
www.naninelinning.nl
www.campanas.com.br
www.jongeriuslab.com
www.russelwrightcenter.org
www.eamesgallery.com
www.mcdonough.com
www.braungart.com
www.loharchitects.com
www.ikea.com
www.thedesignvote.com

Insightful. Thanks Michael. My view is designs should be affordable + intelligent + beautiful.

Jewelry Camp

Jewelry Camp = Antique + Period Jewelry + Gemstones = Learn + Make friends + Simply enjoy.

Useful link:
www.jewelrycamp.org

Marketing To Women

When it comes to marketing to women, Andrea Learned is the expert. Check out her website at http://learnedonwomen.com

Food Force

The educational video game Food Force, a U.N.-produced game on the mechanics of food aid distribution was very interesting. Check out the link at www.food-force.com

How To Live

How to Live: A Search for Wisdom from Old People by Henry Alford is an interesting collection of mini-profiles on fascinating senior citizens. A must read.

Useful link:

http://henryalford.com

Environmental Film Festival

The 17th annual festival takes place in Washington, D.C. on March 11 - 22, 2009. Go to www.dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org for further info. Don't miss it.

Heard On The Street

Gem markets fascinate me; I will never lose interest in gem trading. They provide unique insights + training ground for the self. I learned this after decades of playing and studying; it's an opportunity such art forms present for developing your mind and spirit, really.

Opinion Art Of 2008

Notable Opinion Art of 2008
http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2009/01/03/opinion/200900103_NOTABLEART_2.html

Immersive + Insightful. Thanks NYT. I loved it.

Clyfford Still Paintings

Revealing the Hidden Clyfford Still
http://www.artnewsonline.com/issues/article.asp?art_id=2605

Useful link:
www.clyffordstillmuseum.org

Clyfford Still was an interesting character. Thanks Sylvia for the beautiful insight.

Random Thoughts

I call investing the greatest business in the world because you never have to swing. You stand at the plate, the pitcher throws you General Motors at 47! US steel at 39! And nobody calls a strike on you. There’s no penalty except opportunity lost. All day you wait for the pitch you like; then when the fielders are asleep, you can set up and hit it.

- Warren Buffett
www.berkshirehathaway.com

Spot on.

Bill Cunningham Viewpoint

On the Street Frosted
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2008/12/27/fashion/20091227-street-feature/index.html#

On the Street Claused
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2008/12/20/fashion/20081220-street-feature/index.html#

Brilliant. Imaginative. Hilarious. Thanks Bill. I loved it.

Entrepreneurship Cell

Entrepreneurship Cell, IIT Kharagpur, India
Joys/hardships of entrepreneurship + Case study workshops + Knowledge Camps + Patent workshops + Entrepreneurship Summit. Go to www.ecell.iitkgp.ernet.in for further info.

The Art Stealers

Carried Away with the Mona Lisa
http://www.artnewsonline.com/issues/article.asp?art_id=2604

Useful link:
http://www.monalisadocumentary.blogspot.com

Very interesting story. Thanks Laurie.

Heard On The Street

When one falls in love with a gemstone, irrationality takes over, and one only sees the idealized gem, not the real one.

Yousuf Karsh

Meet Yousuf Karsh, one of the most famous and accomplished portrait photographers of all time @ www.karsh.org

The Original Miami Beach Antique Show

The Original Miami Beach Antique Show will be held from January 22 - 26, 2009, at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami Beach, Flordia. Don't miss it.

Useful link:
www.dmgantiqueshows.com

Heard On The Street

Death is the most beautiful creation of god as this keeps the world ever young and beautiful.

Gullibility

Stephen Greenspan's opinion piece on gullibility in Wall Streel Journal @ http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123093987596650197.html was interesting/insightful. Thanks Stephen. Why do intelligent people sometimes behave in ways so stupid that they destroy their livelihoods or even their lives? Hard to explain, really. I guess it's a state of mind.

Useful link:
www.stephen-greenspan.com

Try Gaming

Want to Truly Scale a Learning Program? Try Gaming
http://www.kauffman.org/education/try-gaming.aspx

Useful link:
www.kauffman.org

I think games are a truly interactive + helps to learn-to-learn.

The Green Microgym

A gym powered by sweat and tears
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7796215.stm

Useful links:
www.thegreenmicrogym.com
www.henryworks.com
www.humandynamo.net

A great environment-friendly green concept. Thanks Peter.

The Diamond Impact

Diamond clues to beasts' demise
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7808171.stm

It's an interesting research. Thanks Molly.

Daniel Arsham

Meet Daniel Arsham + explore his immersive art concepts @ www.danielarsham.com

1000 Dollars & An Idea

1,000 Dollars and an Idea: Entrepreneur to Billionaire by Sam Wyly is an inspirational book of a natural entrepreneur + he speaks the truth - loudly. A must read.

Useful links:
www.1000dollarsandanidea.com
www.charlesandsamwyly.com

Heard On The Street

Top quality Winza (Tanzania) rubies, 10+ carat, well-cut, untreated and exceptionally transparent stones are fetching US$125,000 +/- per carat. It was hard to believe. Signs of the time, I guess. It's truly amazing, really.

Jewelry Show Guide

A one-stop reference source for gem, jewelry, and bead shows = www.jewelryshowguide.com

Robin Williams

Robin Williams: Inside the Actors Studio with James Lipton
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evq8wnvTC3M
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAY6HFOJOLM&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHOErukoKcI&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riVv_R7lUKQ&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n7JWh24TOU&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8KM_bpX5Xk&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pao7jLUI1UA&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tp08j7BdcM&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp8FrocQGdk&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIfJ7c-s90s&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6EEdSZOo5U&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2kRT_lfCFA&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_syVk8vXiQ&feature=related
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4negWrjGPaU&feature=related

Useful links:
www.robinwilliams.com
www.robin-williams.net
www.bravotv.com/Inside_the_Actors_Studio
www.bravotv.com

I am a huge Robin William fan. He was brilliant. He makes sure that you never stop laughing.

Larry Swedroe Viewpoint

Lessons the Market Taught Us in 2008
http://seekingalpha.com/article/112915-lessons-the-market-taught-us-in-2008

Useful link:
https://bamweb.bamservices.com

Informative + timely advice. Thanks Larry.

Enterprising Artists

One Woman's Trash Is Another Woman's...Lingerie?
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123085454543747621.html

Useful links:
www.ingridgoldbloombloch.com
www.depirro.com
www.goddessofgarbage.com
www.ctymoshuk.com

Interesting report + hats off to eco-artists who transform cast-offs into commodities. Thanks Joel/Robert.

Madoff-ization

Staying Clear of Industry Madoff-ization
http://www.idexonline.com/portal_FullEditorial.asp

Chaim was spot on. Only when the tide goes out do you discover who's been swimming naked. The spillover effects from the credit crisis is unfolding at amazing speed worldwide. I think the diamond industry need Warren Buffett-like personalities to instill confidence. Chains of habit are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken.

Art Review 2008

A year in the arts
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/raziaiqbal/2008/12/a_year_in_the_arts.html

Useful link:
www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/raziaiqbal

I think Razia Iqbal's art review 2008 was brilliant. I loved it. Thanks Razia.

Ivory Ban 2009

eBay bans sale of ivory products
http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/nature/ebay-bans-sale-of-ivory-products-1220035.html

Useful links:
www.ifaw.org
www.worldwildlife.org
www.cites.org

The ivory ban comes into effect today and I hope it works.

The La Pita Mines Of Colombia

The Emerald World’s Best-Kept Secret: The La Pita Mines of Colombia
http://www.colored-stone.com/stories/jan09/columbian-emeralds.cfm

Useful links:
www.rwwise.com
www.secretsofthegemtrade.com

Thanks Richard for the insightful report.

Reflections On An Oyster

Reflections on an Oyster
http://judson.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/12/30/reflections-on-an-oyster/?hp

Useful links:
http://judson.blogs.nytimes.com
www.drtatiana.com

A profound essay, really. I have learned something new today. Thanks Olivia.

Jewel Box

Dusting Off a Serene Jewel Box
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/01/arts/design/01forb.html?hp

Long Forgotten in the Forbidden City
http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2008/12/31/arts/design/20090101_FORBIDDEN_index.html3

Useful link:
www.dpm.org.cn

Stunningly beautiful. Thanks Andrew.

Antique Jewelry University

Antique Jewelry University
http://www.langantiques.com/university/index.php/Main_Page

Useful link:
www.langantiques.com

The site is an excellent venue for professionals and individuals who share a passion for antique, estate and vintage jewels. Get involved!

Global Business @ BBC

Peter Day's World of Business interview with Mark Anderson of Strategic News Service and Paul Saffo of Silicon Valley California, and their prediction for the technology world in 2009 @ http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/programmes/global_business.shtml was interesting.

Useful links:
www.tapsns.com
www.saffo.com

Being early is the same as being wrong. Timing matters.
- Joe Kraus

Spot on. Thanks Peter.

It's 2009!

I would like to wish all the visitors to my blog a Happy 2009! I hope 2009 will be different, and maybe it will be.

Random Thoughts

You need hustle and bustle. The Indian model of shopping is theatrical. There is buzz and haggling. If you have wide aisles you have a problem.

- Kishore Biyani
www.futuregroup.in

I completely agree.

Heard On The Street

Whatever happens, 2009 will not be pleasant. Uncertainty will be the watchword for the year.

Abstract Expressionism

Wide World of Abstract Expressionism
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/31/arts/design/31chan.html?_r=1&8dpc

Useful link:
www.robertmillergallery.com

Great review. Thanks Roberta.

Champagne

Champagne Wines
http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/w/wines/champagne/index.html?ex=1246165200&en=2f7e9332dc886107&ei=5087&WT.mc_id=DI-D-I-NYT-MOD-MOD-M076-ROS-0109-HDR&WT.mc_ev=click

Useful links:
www.champagne.com
www.champagne.us

Everyone loves genuine Champagne, really. Thanks NYT.

Art/Craft

MAD About Design
http://moreintelligentlife.com/story/mad-about-design

Useful link:
www.madmuseum.org

I think museums are great places to rediscover the 'wow' effect with meaning. Thanks Ariel.

Victor Fleming

Victor Fleming: An American Movie Master by Michael Sragow is a fascinating case-study of a genius who worked his way up the ladder to take control of some of the most ambitious and risky epics in Hollywood's history. Read it.

The Dopamine Effect

Why We Take Risks — It's the Dopamine
http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1869106,00.html

Useful links:
www.jneurosci.org
www.psy.vanderbilt.edu/faculty/Zalddh/ZaldLab
www.vanderbilt.edu/psychological_sciences/zald

I have always been curious why certain people tend to live life on the edge. May be it's dopamine, the brain's feel-good chemical. Thanks Alice for the insightful report.

Ruby Sources

Christopher P Smith, C R ‘Cap’ Beesley, Elizabeth Quinn Darenius, Wendi M Mayerson writes:

Deposits of gem quality ruby may be found in approximately 20 countries around the world. However, most are concentrated in two regions where major geologic events have occurred. The first involves the orogeny or mountain-building event that is responsible for the creation of the Himalayan mountain chain—and several other associated mountain ranges—that occurred when the Eurasian and Indian plates collided approximately 55 million years ago. These ruby deposits extend from the remote areas of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tajikistan, through Nepal into Burma and across to Vietnam.

The second major geologic event that is responsible for a number of ruby deposits, as well as other gems, includes the Pan-African orogeny, estimated to have taken place approximately 800 million to 450 million years ago. This mountain-building process occurred prior to the separation of a large landmass known as Gondawana, when what are presently Eastern Africa, Sri Lanka, Madagascar and India were are all united. This event is responsible for the ruby deposits of Southern India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Kenya, Tanzania and Malawi.

A number of other ruby sources are associated with eruptive events at the continental margin of the Pacific plate’s western edge. Along this subduction zone, erupting magmatic rocks have intersected ruby occurrences that formed deep in the mantle and transported them to the surface. These ruby sources include Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Australia. Other magmatic-related deposits that occasionally produce rubies include Kenya, Colombia and the U.S.

Random occurrences of ruby have also been found in the Ural mountains of Russia, Greenland and Brazil, as well as elsewhere.

The Growth of Ruby
All known ruby deposits are formed under metamorphic growth conditions. Metamorphism is when preexisting rocks are recrystallized without melting due to changes in temperature, pressure and/or chemical composition on a regional or local scale. A number of specific metamorphic environments are responsible for the growth of rubies within individual countries or areas. Worldwide, gems may be recovered from primary or secondary deposits, that is within the rocks where they formed or a secondary location where they had been transported, respectively. Not considering transportation, gem quality ruby deposits can be categorized into two main groups: metamorphic and magmatic-related.

Metamorphic deposits: This broad grouping of corundum deposits includes a range of specific metamorphic environments, such as marbles, mafic and ultramafic rocks, as well as those characterized by high fluid rock interaction and metasomatism of different preexisting rocks—desilicated pegmatites in mafic and ultramafic rocks, skarns, etc. However, the most important of these in terms of producing gem-quality rubies are those ruby deposits occurring in marbles.

Magmatic-related deposits: These ruby deposits required magmatic, eruptive events to transport the rubies to the surface. However, the magmatic rock—alkali-basalt, lamprophyre and syenite—is not where the rubies formed. Although these rubies have a metamorphic origin, they have a unique set of gemological characteristics that clearly distinguish them from the rubies recovered from the metamorphic deposits described previously.

Source Type Classification
A system of classification was developed by of the authors, C.P. Smith—while director of the Gubelin Gem Lab in Switzerland—that combines geologic and gemological considerations in order to compare rubies with similar properties and internal characteristics forming in various growth environments. This system allows for rubies of similar ‘types’ but from different countries to be compared, as well as rubies of different ‘types’ to be distinguished from each other. This classification can also be applied to sapphires.

The system has two tiers. The first tier separates rubies into three groups based on broad geologic formation scenarios. Two of the three groups contain stones that possess what are considered by experienced gemologists to be ‘classical’ combinations of specific gemological features for metamorphic and magmatic-related sources. For the rubies from metamorphic environments, referred to as Met, such features include a bright red color and relatively low iron content. Typical sources for the Met group include Burma, both Mogok and Mong Hsu, Vietnam, Luc Yen, and Tajikistan. Rubies from magmatic-related environments, referred to as Mag, have classical features that include a dark red, often purplish color, a relatively higher iron content and very specific inclusions. Typical sources of ruby in the Mag group include Thailand and Cambodia. A third group, designated as Met-Mag, signifies those sources that have properties and characteristics outside of the classical ones for either a metamorphic or magmatic-related deposit. However, they are characterized by a body color that has modifiers of brown and/or orange and some of the highest iron contents of any ruby sources. Ruby deposits that fall into the Met-Mag group include Malawi, Tanzania, both Songea and Winza, and Madagascar.

The second tier of the classification system subdivides each of these three groups into four categories of ‘types’, Type I-IV, based on their dominant inclusion features and supported by various other features and data from advanced analytical techniques. Type I stones are typified by ‘silk’ inclusions, most commonly needles of rutile. Type II are characterized by very fine-grained, zonal clouds of ‘dust’ particles. Type III may be distinguished by various crosshatch and flake-like inclusion patterns and Type IV are identified by concentrations of zircon inclusions and/or negative crystals associated with thin films that typically bisect the negative crystals, referred to as ‘equatorial thin films’. Combinations of these types may also occur when multiple features are encountered in a stone.
(Source: Rapaport, Vol 31, No.47, December 5, 2008)

Useful links:
www.aglgemlab.com
www.gubelinlab.com

I found the report in the Rapaport magazine interesting. The color pictures and inclusions are good reference sources for educational purposes, but how practical/applicable are the type categorization/classification in the gem trade. Because of the high value status of rubies and sapphires among the traders/consumers/collectors a slight variation in the hue/differences in opinion among experts could cost thousands of dollars. High tech treatments of rubies and sapphires have become a common practice. Detecting treatments/origin have also become difficult. But I believe it's a small step in the right direction. Hats off to the AGL Gemlab team.

Merchant Of Death

Flying anything to anybody
http://www.economist.com/displayStory.cfm?story_id=12795502&source=hptextfeature

Useful links:
www.merchantofdeathbook.com
www.motherjones.com
www.foreignpolicy.com/story/cms.php?story_id=3600
www.keele.ac.uk/depts/hi/research/recu.htm

My view is as long as there is demand (weapons = diamonds, rubies, sapphires, gold, whatever) people like Viktor Bout will exist.

Heard On The Street

Take all expert predictions with a pinch of salt. Never invest in something you don't understand.

The Way Of The Warrior-Trader

The Way of the Warrior-Trader: The Financial Risk-Taker's Guide to Samurai Courage, Confidence and Discipline by Richard D. McCall is a fascinating reality-based book that transcends trading with proper motivation and battlefield psychology. A must read.

Green Technology Of 2008

The Top 10 Green Tech Breakthroughs of 2008
http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/12/the-top-10-gree.html

Useful links:
www.csem.ch
http://yaghi.chem.ucla.edu
www.epa.gov
http://web.mit.edu/chemistry/dgn/www
http://web.mit.edu/chemistry/www/faculty/nocera.html
www.boonepickens.com
www.pickensplan.com
www.brightsourceenergy.com
www.ausra.com
www.esolar.com
www.solel.com
www.lbl.gov/Publications/Director
www.nanosolar.com
www.betterplace.com

Great review. Thanks Alexis.

Thomas Heatherwick

Meet Thomas Heatherwick + explore his inventive projects @ www.heatherwick.com

Useful links:
www.moca.org
www.thomasheatherwick.com

Nineteenth Century Artwork

Artistic clues to coastal change
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7790416.stm

Useful links:
www.coastalwight.gov.uk
www.tate.org.uk

I think Robin McInnes had a keen eye and the skill to connect the dots. Hats off to Robin.

Random Thoughts

You can be sitting still surfing the Internet, and experience other worlds, ideas and societies. But I’ve found that there is nothing better than visiting a different country, even if for three days ... you can’t only be a virtual Global Nomad, with goggles on, in a virtual reality. You have to be there. You have to see it, smell it and live it. You have to see people, travel, and interact.

- Nouriel Roubini
www.rgemonitor.com
www.rgemonitor.com/blog/roubini

Spot on.

Chrysoprase Chalcedony

Richard Osmond/David Baker's report on Chrysoprase Chalcedony/mining methods @ http://www.colored-stone.com/stories/jan09/chrysoprase.cfm was interesting. I have seen a few pieces in Bangkok, Thailand. Well cut, good quality stones are stunningly beautiful.

The Divine Art

The Divine Art: Four Centuries of European Tapestries is on view at the Art Institute of Chicago through January 4, 2009. Go to www.artic.edu/aic for further info. Don't miss it.

A Life's Design

A Life's Design: The Life And Work of Industrial Designer Charles Harrison by Charles Harrison is an insightful book of an artist and industrial designer. A must read.

Useful links:
www.cooperhewitt.org
www.saic.edu

Art Update

Small is Beautiful xxvi, Flowers East, London
www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/art/reviews/small-is-beautiful-xxvi-flowers-east-london-1214709.html

Useful link:
www.flowerseast.com

Thanks Sue.

Social Games

Cash-strapped consumers may want to try simple/casual games for an immersive experience.

Check out the links @ www.zynga.com + www.popcap.com

Mary Poppins

The supercalifragilistic answer
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/56282f68-96f1-11dd-8cc4-000077b07658.html

Useful links:
http://disney.go.com/theatre/marypoppins/#/home
www.marypoppinsthemusical.co.uk
www.imdb.com/title/tt0058331

Last week, to understand the current crisis better, I watched it again. Now I see that not only are the bank scenes realistic, the entire film should be required viewing for all bankers: it manages to be soothing, perspicacious and upbeat all at once.
- Lucy Kellaway

Lucy, I completely agree.

Petros Chrisostomou

Meet Petros Chrisostomou + explore his art form (perfectly ordinary object becomes wholly extraordinary) @ www.petrosc.com

Useful link:
www.cerihand.co.uk

The Secret Of The Grain

The Secret of the Grain
Couscous and Family: A Story of Sustenance
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/28/movies/28erla.html?ref=arts

Useful links:
www.lagraineetlemulet-lefilm.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Secret_of_the_Grain

An extraordinary film with real-life feel.

Heard On The Street

These days, no one, even the most financially secure, can afford to be stupid.

Random Thoughts

Humor exposes the fact that it’s not the dumb people who cause problems, it’s the smart people who come up with dumb ideas.

- Bob Mankoff
www.cartoonbank.com

Bob, I completely agree.

Asteroid Hitting The Earth

Asteroid Hitting the Earth
Watch this extraordinary video @ www.youtube.com/watch?v=rg1J4wQ7cHw

Influence

Influence: Science and Practice by Robert B. Cialdini is an insightful book on persuasive tactics. A must read.

Useful links:

www.influenceatwork.com

https://sec.was.asu.edu/directory/person/10913

The 850-pound Emerald Story

I found the 850-pound emerald/$370 million story/viewpoints @ http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/12/27/giant.emerald/index.html?eref=rss_world intriguing. In my view no one in the right mind would pay US$370 million for a heavily included stone (s).

Photoatlas Of Inclusions In Gemstones

The book Photoatlas of Inclusions in Gemstones Volume 1/2/3 by John Koivula and Edward Gubelin is a must have for anyone whose livelihood depends upon gem identification. Go to www.microworldofgems.com for further info.

UniversalGiving

Profile of a Social Entrepreneur
http://www.businessweek.com/managing/content/dec2008/ca20081224_387821.htm

Useful links:
www.universalgiving.org
www.marshallgoldsmithlibrary.com

Marshall Goldsmith's interview with Pamela Hawley was inspiring. Thanks Marshall.

Groundswell

Groundswell: Winning in a World Transformed by Social Technologies by Charlene Li + Josh Bernoff is an insightful book on the growing importance of social networking applications + the impact. A must read.

Useful link:
www.forrester.com/Groundswell

John Wood

Room to Read's John Wood: Bringing the Power of Education to Children around the World
http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article.cfm?articleid=2121

Useful links:
www.roomtoread.org
www.leavingmicrosoftbook.com

Inspiring, really. Hats off to John.

Heard On The Street

Gem identification is simple, but it is not easy. Gem ID is a skill (mental, emotional, physical) that takes time, patience, perseverance and courage.

Predictions 2009

Timeless and Time-Tested Warren Buffett Watch Predictions
http://www.cnbc.com/id/28392900

Useful link:
www.berkshirehathaway.com

Thanks Alex for the timely advice.

The Leg Lamp

I have been fan of the movie A Christmas Story, a cult classic + the film’s infamous leg lamp, a unique piece of art and imagination. The website www.redriderleglamps.com sells replicas in several sizes.

Watch @ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mjruvE310Y

Useful links:
www2.warnerbros.com/achristmasstory
www.imdb.com/title/tt0085334
www.achristmasstoryhouse.com

Heard On The Street

The big headache right now is credit. I can find gemstones, and selling them is not the problem. It's who to sell to and will I get paid. No one really knows what's going on right now, really. It's a new state of mind.

Top 10 Movies 2008

Top 10 Movies 2008
http://www.time.com/time/specials/2008/top10/article/0,30583,1855948_1863826,00.html

Useful links:
www.pixar.com/featurefilms/walle
www.apple.com/trailers/sony/synecdochenewyork
www.apple.com/trailers/independent/mywinnipeg
www.apple.com/trailers/independent/4months3weeks2days
www.apple.com/trailers/focus_features/milk
www.apple.com/trailers/paramount/thecuriouscaseofbenjaminbutton
www.apple.com/trailers/fox_searchlight/slumdogmillionaire
www.apple.com/trailers/paramount/ironman
www.apple.com/trailers/wb/speedracer
www.thinkfilmcompany.com Encounters at the End of the World

Thanks Richard. You were spot on. I loved it.

Lessons From Madoff

Lessons From Madoff: You Would Have Missed Buffett Too
http://seekingalpha.com/article/112282-lessons-from-madoff-you-would-have-missed-buffett-too

Useful link:
http://blog.canadianbusiness.com/category/larry-macdonald

Thanks Larry for the timely advice.

Red Gold + Pebble Project

Ben Knight + Travis Rummel's documentary entitled 'Red Gold' was interesting because the story concerning Anglo American/Northern Dynasty Minerals gold mine project, a.k.a the Pebble Project in Alaska's Bristol Bay, and the local Alaskans, who are worried about their environment/impact are real issues.

Watch @ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqrpbgeeyeE

Useful links:
www.redgoldfilm.com
www.feltsoulmedia.com
www.pebblepartnership.com
www.truthaboutpebble.org
www.mountainfilm.org
www.tiffanyandcofoundation.org
www.angloamerican.co.uk
www.northerndynastyminerals.com

Moon Movies

Japan marvels at its Moon movies
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7291525.stm

Useful links:
www.selene.jaxa.jp
www.lpi.usra.edu

Educational + stunningly beautiful, really.

Harold Pinter

Nobel Prize-winning playwright Harold Pinter, one of the most influential playwrights of the 20th century, has died at the age of 78. May he rest in peace.

Useful link:
www.haroldpinter.org