Diamond Traders To Equity Traders

Diamond dealers in India have begun trading in equities to diversify their income stream in a bid to offset the current crisis in the diamond sector. Exports of cut/polished diamonds to the US and other markets are down + the current global credit crunch has also made it difficult for them to access credit facilities via banks to carry out their business activities. Industry analysts believe global demand for rough diamonds is expected to drop by some 60% this year as the global recession hits demand for luxury goods.

Art Market Update

Paris auction reflects a major turning point for art market
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/02/27/arts/melik28.php

Useful links:
www.christies.com
www.pba-auctions.com

Souren, I agree. The art market is in a good mood. The sale had demonstrated its potential.

Kris Kristofferson

Meet Kris Kristofferson, an American writer, singer-songwriter, actor, and musician.
www.kriskristofferson.com

Why We Make Mistakes

Why We Make Mistakes: How We Look Without Seeing, Forget Things in Seconds, and Are All Pretty Sure We Are Way Above Average by Joseph T. Hallinan is an insightful research on how basic flaws in human perception (state of mind) shape decisionmaking. A must read.

Useful link:

www.whywemakemistakes.com

Southern Africa Shining Light Diamond Design Awards 2009

DTC Southern Africa Shining Light Diamond Design Awards 2009
http://www.debeersgroup.com/en/Media-centre/Press-releases/2009/DTC-SOUTHERN-AFRICA-SHINING-LIGHT-DIAMOND-DESIGN-AWARDS

Useful links:
www.shininglightawards.co.za
www.forevermark.com
www.source.co.il
www.dtc.com

Truly brilliant designs + Southern African.

Jewelry Industry Update

Jewelers losing luster
http://www.newsday.com/business/ny-a6045607feb23,0,7675431.story

There were about 22,600 jewelry companies operating about 26,700 stores in the United States at the end of 2008.

Useful links:
www.kennethgassman.com
www.jewelers.org
www.jewelersboard.com

I think retail jewelers will have to reinvent and innovate to stay in business. Many will forgo jewelry in difficult times.

Million Dollar Gold Coin

The largest and most expensive gold bullion coin in the world
http://apmex.com/milliondollarcoin/Default.aspx

Useful link:
www.mint.ca

Thai Gemstone Industry Update

Industry in rut as diamonds lose lustre
http://www.bangkokpost.com/business/economics/11842/industry-in-rut-as-diamonds-lose-lustre

Useful links:
www.thaidiamonds.org
www.thaigemjewelry.or.th

Spot on. The economic crisis is definitely going to impact the gemstone sector negatively.

Bernie Madoff Operating System

The Monster Mensch
http://nymag.com/news/businessfinance/54703

A fascinating story about evil, greed, corruption and morality. A must read.

Random Thoughts

Purple is having its moment because we’re living in a time that’s very complex.

- Leatrice Eiseman
www.colorexpert.com
www.pantone.com

Spot on.

Antony Gormley Project

Antony Gormley wants you for the fourth plinth
http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2009/feb/26/antony-gormley-fourth-plinth

Useful links:
www.antonygormley.com
www.npg.org.uk
www.artscouncil.org.uk
www.oneandother.co.uk

The idea behind One & Other is great. I liked it, but it is also terrifying.

Reality Coalition Campaign

Coen brothers target US coal industry
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/feb/26/coen-brothers-coal-industry-film

Useful links:
www.thisisreality.org
www.climateprotect.org

Brilliant PR.

Heard On The Street

We have to reinvent ourselves or perish given the realities of consumer behavior. I think it's the right mindset for troubled times.

Orchids As Art

Orchids as Art, With a Nod to Brazil
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/26/garden/26garden.html

Useful links:
www.raymondjungles.com
www.burlemarx.com.br
www.nybg.org
www.ecostudies.org
www.aia.org

Plants = Art = Museum of living things. The Orchid Show: Brazilian Modern. February 28 – April 12, 2009. A must visit.

Random Thoughts

You can usually pick out the empire builders simply by asking how they allocate capital – they tend to have a hard time zeroing in on a concrete answer.

- Robert Williamson
William McAree Investment Partners
www.valueinvestorinsight.com

Spot on.

Krishna & Devotion

Seduced by a flute
http://www.economist.com/books/displayStory.cfm?story_id=13176907

Useful links:
www.asiahouse.org
www.vam.ac.uk

It is a jewel + beautiful works of art. A must visit.

De Beers Update

Giving Credit to De Beers
http://www.idexonline.com/portal_FullEditorial.asp

Useful links:
www.debeersgroup.com
www.dtc.com

Spot on.

Frog In Amber

Scientist: Frog could be 25 million years old
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17168489

Definitely rare and unique.

Auto-Entrepreneurs

The No-Risk Culture
http://www.newsweek.com/id/185810

Useful links:
http://blog.100000entrepreneurs.com
www.nfte.com
www.sciences-po.fr
www.ceri-sciencespo.com

A good attitude towards entrepreneurship + a great start.

Art Market Update

Enthusiasm for Art Deco drives €59.14 million sale
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/02/25/arts/melik26.php

Useful link:
www.christies.com

It's hard to explain the mood in the market; may be it's the specific gravity pull that attracts as many bidders ready to shed millions in the art market. Who knows? But there is money and vitality to keep the art market awake, and that's the good news.

Picasso: Challenging The Past

Picasso: Challenging the Past
http://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/exhibitions/picasso/default.htm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/7909559.stm

Useful link:
www.musee-picasso.fr

A must visit.

Victoire de Castellane/Dior Fine Jewelry

Dress Sense: Petals
http://moreintelligentlife.com/story/dress-sense-petals

Useful link:
www.diorjoaillerie.com

Great interview. I love flowers. They are natural and amorphous.

Cost Of Engagement Rings

Brides Survey Finds a Jump in Cost of Engagement Rings
http://www.diamonds.net/news/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=25423

Useful link:
www.brides.com

A wedding is definitely one of the most important event in a couple's life. I think US$6,348 is a sweet price for the celebration in the United States.

The Emotional Brain

The Emotional Brain: The Mysterious Underpinnings of Emotional Life by Joseph Ledoux is an insightful book on biological/psychological understanding of our emotions via amygdala, a primitive, almond-shaped clump of tissue situated not far above the brainstem + real-world implications.

Useful link:

www.cns.nyu.edu/ledoux

Beauty Photography

Milan exhibition celebrates beauty photography
http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/beauty/article5797521.ece

Useful links:
www.dolcegabbana.it/extreme-beauty-in-vogue
www.jeannouvel.fr
www.style.com/vogue

Fantasy + Desire = Beauty + Inspiration. Extreme Beauty in Vogue is at the Palazzo Della Ragione in Milan from March 4 -10, 2009. A must visit.

City Of Words

I fell in love with the City of Words map of St. Petersburg, from Russia! magazine. This unique map of Russia's literary capital was created entirely by Russian authors writing about St. Petersburg. Check out the link http://readrussia.com/store/00009

Nassim Taleb Viewpoint

How bank bonuses let us all down
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/fa89be08-02aa-11de-b58b-000077b07658.html?nclick_check=1

Finally, I was involved in trading for 21 years and I can testify that traders consciously play the free option game. On the other hand, I worked (in my other job as risk adviser) with various military organisations and people watching over our safety. We trust military and homeland security people with our lives, yet they do not get a bonus. They get promotions, the honour of a job well done and the disincentive of shame if they fail. Roman soldiers signed a sacramentum accepting punishment in the event of failure. This is prompting me to call for the nationalisation of the utility part of banking as the only solution in which society does not grant individuals free options to look after its risks. No incentive without disincentive. And never trust with your money anyone making a potential bonus.
- Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Useful link:
www.fooledbyrandomness.com

Great essay. Nassim, I completely agree.

Gaming Jewelry Line

Meet Robert Williamson III, an American professional poker player from Dallas, Texas + check out his unique gaming jewelry line @ www.rwiiidesigns.com

Useful link:
www.rwiii.com

Family Business Institute Viewpoint

Family Business Institute President Wayne Rivers, talks on CNN about recession opportunites for Family Businesses
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5255055963391654523&hl=en

Useful link:
www.familybusinessinstitute.com

I think family-owned businesses are most at risk in tough times due to lack of reserve capital and a functional business model. The interview was interesting/insightful.

Art Appreciation

Art appreciation 'a gender issue'
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7905251.stm

Useful links:
www.mrc-cbu.cam.ac.uk
www.pnas.org
www.faculty.uci.edu/profile.cfm?faculty_id=2134
www.mrc-cbu.cam.ac.uk/people/friedemann.pulvermuller

Interesting study.

Rio Carnival 2009

Rio Carnival 2009
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/7907301.stm

Useful links:
www.rio.rj.gov.br
www.rio-carnival.net

The must-see show which has made Rio de Janeiro the Carnival Capital of the world.

Hong Kong International Jewelry Show 2009

Hong Kong International Jewelry Show 2009
http://hkjewellery.hktdc.com

Useful link:
www.hktdc.com

The Hong Kong gem and jewelry show is the best in Asia. The show is divided into a number of specialized theme exhibitor zones for buyers to locate specialist and niche items. A must visit, really.

Martin Rapaport Viewpoint

Bubble Trouble
http://www.diamonds.net/News/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=25433

Interesting perspective. I think the diamond industry is definitely going through its own boom and bust cycle and god knows when the prices are going to stabilize. Diamond dealers are fleeing with stones and money + the morale is low. Simply put, they have seen the movie before + they have short memory. Frozen, really!

Global Business BBC

Peter Day's World of Business reviews a new business model –a 'mobility system' as well as a new car + the environmental impact.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/programmes/global_business.shtml

Useful links:
www.teslamotors.com
www.revaindia.com
www.goingreen.co.uk
www.betterplace.com
www.byd.com

Duke Ellington On US Coin

Jazz legend Duke Ellington will become the first African-American to appear on an American coin. The District of Columbia honoring Duke Ellington will be introduced on Tuesday, February 24, 2009, at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.

Useful links:
www.usmint.gov
www.dc.gov
http://americanhistory.si.edu
www.dukeellington.com

Saint Laurent Art Sale Update

Saint Laurent Art Sale Brings In $264 Million
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/24/arts/design/24auction.html?hp

Useful links:
www.christies.com
www.grandpalais.fr
www.beauxartsmagazine.com
www.pba-auctions.com

Amazingly the auction went well. I think the bidders got carried away and paid crazy prices.

Classroom Experience IDEO Way

IDEO’s Ten Tips For Creating a 21st–Century Classroom Experience
http://www.metropolismag.com/story/20090218/”http://www.metropolismag.com/story/20090218/ideos-ten-tips-for-creating-a-21st-century-classroom-experience

Useful link:
www.ideo.com

The tips were brilliant. Great list.

Andrew Collins Viewpoint

Life in China as an Entrepreneur: Face Value
http://www.fastcompany.com/blog/andrew-collins/china-blog-life-china-entrepreneur/china-blog-life-china-entrepreneur-0

I’m reminded of a great old Gary Larson ‘Far Side’ comic strip with cows by the roadside. In one shot, as a car is passing, they are standing on all four legs eating grass. In the next shot, after the car has passed (foreigners), the cows get back to being themselves (Chinese), standing on two feet, socialising. Perhaps I’ve taken it too far?
- Andrew Collins

Useful link:
www.mailmanchina.com

Spot on. I have a copy of the great Gary Larson 'Far Side' comic clip. It was brilliant.

TriState Biodiesel

TriState Biodiesel = Energetic Business = Sustainable Business Model
http://nyc.tristatebiodiesel.com

Art Market Update

Brother, Can You Spare a Painting?
http://www.newsweek.com/id/185786

Useful links:
www.arttactic.com
www.artbaselmiamibeach.com
www.tate.org.uk
www.whitney.org
www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk
www.sothebys.com
www.christies.com
www.moma.org
www.moca-la.org
www.jackrutbergfinearts.com
www.friezeartfair.com

I hope the real art will rise again.

Bill Cunningham Viewpoint

On the Street Gray Days
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/02/20/fashion/20090221-street-feature/index.html#

The shades of grey were beautiful. I liked it. Thank you Bill.

Al Ries + Jack Trout

Pick up their books. They are quick reads + contains useful thinking. Here is an interesting quote I liked from The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing: 'Success leads to arrogance and arrogance to failure.'

Useful links:
www.troutandpartners.com
www.ries.com

Yorihiko Kojima Viewpoint

A desire to speak up and speak out
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/78350d08-ff7c-11dd-b3f8-000077b07658.html

First rule: don’t be afraid to make mistakes. 'When you look Japanese, there is absolutely no need to speak nice, fluent English. No one expects you to.'
Second rule: don’t be intimidated. 'We Japanese tend to be overawed when someone speaks to us in firm, fluent English. That is a mistake. Even if your English is bad, you have to stick to your opinions.'
Third rule: don’t confuse linguistic skill with business skill. 'People who speak well aren’t necessarily first-rate achievers.'
- Yorihiko Kojima
CEO, Mitsubishi Corporation

Useful link:
www.mitsubishicorp.com

Great essay. Thank you Jonathan. No wonder Japanese are unique survivors in business despite the linguistic handicap.

Crucifix-Inspired Designs

Crucifix-inspired Design: Campy or Sacrilegious?
http://www.fastcompany.com/blog/cliff-kuang/design-innovation/clever-design-sacrilege-or-neither

Useful links:
www.humanssince1982.com
www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/artists/terence_koh.htm
www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/artists/banks_violette.htm
www.fredriksonstallard.com

Shocking, really. I hope the concept is not misunderstood.

Lords Of Finance

Lords of Finance: The Bankers Who Broke the World by Liaquat Ahamed is a great book of history to read and contemplate in troubled times, really. A must read.

Useful link:
www.aspen.bm

Imitation Jewelry Market Update

Gold boom boosts Pak imitation jewellery trade
http://www.commodityonline.com/news/Gold-boom-boosts-Pak-imitation-jewellery-trade-15337-3-1.html

Pakistan’s jewelry-crazy women will definitely add more luster to the imitation jewelry trade as gold prices keeping rising in an amorphous way.

Poetry In Nicaragua

Passion for poetry in Nicaragua
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7898927.stm

Useful links:
www.festivalpoesianicaragua.org.ni
www.festivaldepoesiadegranada.com

I perceive poetry as an art form + it is still relevant today because it's effective when used appropriately/selectively + festivals are excellent venues to showcase different poetic genres.

Bohemian Rhapsody

Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody
Is this the real life-
Is this just fantasy-
Caught in a landslide-
No escape from reality-
Open your eyes
Look up to the skies and see-
Im just a poor boy, I need no sympathy-
Because I’m easy come, easy go,
A little high, little low,
Anyway the wind blows, doesnt really matter to me,
To me

Mama, just killed a man,
Put a gun against his head,
Pulled my trigger, now he's dead,
Mama, life had just begun,
But now I've gone and thrown it all away-
Mama ooo,
Didnt mean to make you cry-
If I’m not back again this time tomorrow-Carry on, carry on, as if nothing really matters-

Too late, my time has come,
Sends shivers down my spine-
Body’s aching all the time,
Goodbye everybody-I’ve got to go-
Gotta leave you all behind and face the truth-
Mama ooo- (any way the wind blows)
I don't want to die, I sometimes wish I’d never been born at all-

I see a little silhouetto of a man,
Scaramouche, scaramouche will you do the fandango-
Thunderbolt and lightning-very very frightening me-
Galileo, galileo,
Galileo galileo
Galileo figaro-magnifico-
But I’m just a poor boy and nobody loves me-
Hes just a poor boy from a poor family-
Spare him his life from this monstrosity-
Easy come easy go-, will you let me go-
Bismillah! no-, we will not let you go-let him go-
Bismillah! we will not let you go-let him go
Bismillah! we will not let you go-let me go
Will not let you go-let me go
Will not let you go let me go
No, no, no, no, no, no, no-
Mama mia,mama mia,mama mia let me go-Beelzebub has a devil put aside for me, for me, for me-

So you think you can stone me and spit in my eye-
So you think you can love me and leave me to die-
Oh baby-can't do this to me baby-
Just gotta get out-just gotta get right outta here-Nothing really matters,
Anyone can see,
Nothing really matters, nothing really matters to me,
Any way the wind blows....

- Freddie Mercury
www.queenonline.com

The song was a gloom and doom terminator today, really.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irp8CNj9qBI

Art Review

Spot colour
http://www.economist.com/opinion/displayStory.cfm?story_id=13167631

Useful links:
www.claricecliff.com
www.bonhams.com

The vivid colored pottery was stunningly beautiful. I liked them.

A World Transformed

A World Transformed: What Are the Top 30 Innovations of the Last 30 Years?
http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article.cfm?articleid=2163

1. Internet, broadband, WWW (browser and html)
2. PC/laptop computers
3. Mobile phones
4. E-mail
5. DNA testing and sequencing/Human genome mapping
6. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
7. Microprocessors
8. Fiber optics
9. Office software (spreadsheets, word processors)
10. Non-invasive laser/robotic surgery (laparoscopy)
11. Open source software and services (e.g., Linux, Wikipedia)
12. Light emitting diodes
13. Liquid crystal display (LCD)
14. GPS systems
15. Online shopping/ecommerce/auctions (e.g., eBay)
16. Media file compression (jpeg, mpeg, mp3)
17. Microfinance
18. Photovoltaic Solar Energy
19. Large scale wind turbines
20. Social networking via the Internet
21. Graphic user interface (GUI)
22. Digital photography/videography
23. RFID and applications (e.g., EZ Pass)
24. Genetically modified plants
25. Bio fuels
26. Bar codes and scanners
27. ATMs
28. Stents
29. SRAM flash memory
30. Anti retroviral treatment for AIDS

Useful link:
www.pbs.org/nbr

Quite hard to believe the impact of innovations of the last 30 years. Great essay.

Anjolie Ela Menon

The Collector: Anjolie Ela Menon
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123506355404924201.html
http://www.indianartcircle.com/anjolieelamenon/aem_ind1.shtml

Useful link:
www.vadehraart.com

Great interview.

Diamond Market Review

Diamond Sales, and Prices, Plunge
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/21/business/21diamonds.html

Useful links:
www.debeersgroup.com
www.debswana.com
www.diamondintelligence.com

Interesting review. According to Chaim Even-Zohar, without new diamond discoveries the world may run out of new diamonds within 20 years. That makes natural diamonds rare. We shall wait and see. Let's hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

MJSA Buyer's Resource Vol. 1

The Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America has released a new manual entitled MJSA Buyer's Resource Vol. 1 for the jewelry industry. Go to http://www.mjsa.org/press/press_read.php?id=152 for further info.

Useful links:
www.mjsa.org
http://jic.org

Educational link + Video Games

Microsoft explores educational link to video games
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Infotech/MS-educational-link-to-video-games/articleshow/4163740.cms
http://research.microsoft.com/en-us/collaboration/institutes/gamesinstitute.aspx

Useful links:
http://g4li.nyu.edu
http://gearsofwar.xbox.com
www.worldofwarcraft.com
www.commonsensemedia.org

Pros/cons. Great review. If they can make games fun not violent, that would be ideal.

Harlem Children's Zone

He’s the Angel of Harlem
http://www.newsweek.com/id/184622

Useful link:
www.hcz.org

Inspiring. Great interview.

Ancient Multiculturalism

Ancient Multiculturalism on Display at New York's Met
http://www.time.com/time/travel/article/0,31542,1880518,00.html

Useful link:
www.metmuseum.org

Simply stunning + totally internally reflective.

Random Thoughts

I thought I was lucky to make some money, then lucky to make a living, then lucky to be a millionaire.

- Terry Pratchett
www.terrypratchettbooks.com

Spot on.

The Group Of Thirty

Check out the latest findings of the Group of 30, a panel of policy-makers and influential economists at www.group30.org

The Sound Of Music Musical

The surreal story of The Sound of Music
www.soundofmusiclondon.com

One of my favorite musicals, really.

Shah Abbas: The Remaking Of Iran

Exhibit ignores perplexing questions during Iranian king's rule
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/02/20/arts/melik21.php
http://www.iht.com/indexes/special/melikian/index.php

Useful links:
www.britishmuseum.org
www.nationalmuseumofiran.ir

Great review.

Million-Dollar Jewelry Heist

Twins arrested in Berlin jewelry heist
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/02/20/europe/berlin.php
www.imdb.com/title/tt0055277

There's no comparable crime in the store's history.
- Petra Fladenhofer
www.kadewe.de

Interesting story. Definitely a unique case. In February 2009, identical twin brothers escaped the death penalty in a Malaysian drug trafficking trial after the court ruled authorities could not prove which man committed the alleged crime. We shall wait and see.

Renewable Energy Projects India

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has launched model solar city projects to promote increased use of renewable energy + implement sustainable energy options through public - private partnerships. Nagpur will become a model solar city by 2012.

For more information visit http://mnes.nic.in

Birgit Nilsson Prize 2009

Spanish opera singer Placido Domingo has been awarded the first ever Birgit Nilsson prize for his contributions to the world of opera.

Useful links:
www.birgitnilssonprize.org
www.placidodomingo.com

Domingo is one of the greatest opera singers of all time. I am a huge fan. Congratulations!

Futurism

Back to the Futurists
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/7894877.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/bsp/hi/pdfs/20_02_09_the_futurist_manifesto.pdf

Useful links:
www.estorickcollection.com
www.stuckism.com

Interesting perspective. I think the manifestos were great—telling it like it is.

The Jazz Age

Audio Slideshow: The jazz age hits Main Street
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/7896380.stm

Useful links:
www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/america
www.hist.cam.ac.uk/academic_staff/further_details/reynolds.html
www.louisarmstronghouse.org

Brilliant review. Thank you David.

iPod Touch Artists

Check out French artist/videographer David Lasnier's art work at www.antisynoptique.com

Useful links:
www.flickr.com/photos/antisynoptique
http://brushesapp.com
www.flickr.com/groups/brushes/pool

Art Center Summit 2009

Expanding the Vision of Sustainable Mobility
Check out the keynote events at www.artcenter.edu/summit

Gems & Gemology

Gems and Gemology, a quarterly journal of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), is now available in electronic format at GIA.Metapress.com.

Check out the link at www.gia.edu/gemsandgemology/70/main_page.cfm

Random Thoughts

Discounted cash flow to us is sort of like the Hubble telescope – you turn it a fraction of an inch and you’re in a different galaxy. There are just so many variables in this kind of analysis – that’s not for us.

- Curtis Jensen
www.thirdavenuefunds.com
www.valueinvestorinsight.com

Spot on.

Bamboo Designs

Bamboo-zled: Eco Veneers Storm the Design World
http://blog.wired.com/gadgets/2009/02/bamboo-pcs-catc.html

Useful links:
www.newdealdesign.com
www.calfeedesign.com
www.frogdesign.com

Bamboo has become the new titanium + the trendsetter. It's green, stylish, natural and reconnects the audience.

Color Stories 2009

Color Stories 2009 by Stuller, Inc, highlights the importance and beneficial aspects of promoting gemstones by color instead of by birthstones. I completely agree. In my view Stuller's color-centric approach to selling gemstones is the right way.

Useful link:
www.stuller.com

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme

In Court Of Public Opinion: Kimberley System vs Accountability & Transparency
http://www.idexonline.com/portal_FullEditorial.asp

Useful link:
www.kimberleyprocess.com

In my view compliance, accountability and transparency may have different interpretations among the KPCS members, but it's encouraging to see Chaim bring out into the open the important issues via the media. Hats off to Chaim.

The Rig Hotel

What's the Big Idea?
http://www.hdmag.com/hospitalitydesign/content_display/projects/e3i0d287909ecf291eb1aa42ff1bfdd58c4

Useful links:
www.radicalinnovationinhospitality.com
www.morrisarchitects.com
www.centre-prop.com

The Rig Hotel is really one-of-a-kind design. I liked it.

Celebrity Calamity

Celebrity Calamity: A Game That Teaches Finance Through Stardom
http://www.fastcompany.com/blog/anya-kamenetz/green-day/help-im-celebritys-budgeter

Useful links:
www.celebritycalamity.com
www.d2dfund.org
http://indebted.com/the-challenge

I really liked the new approach to teaching financial literacy via video game. Thanks Anya.

Beaujolais

The Revival of Beaujolais
http://www.time.com/time/travel/article/0,31542,1878757,00.html

Useful links:
www.marcel-lapierre.com
www.closdemez.com

I think beautiful wines are for beautiful people, really.

Old Lessons

Old lessons for a new financial crisis
http://money.cnn.com/2009/02/18/magazines/fortune/loeb.fortune/index.htm?postversion=2009021811

- Once in every seven to ten years, there is a period of excessive general speculation culminating in a severe panic or depression when the man who is borrowing money is at great disadvantage and he who has ready cash stands like a tower, four-square to the ill winds that blow.
- Extreme situations do not last, no matter what the apparent justification. While we may have 'new eras,' old laws will still operate.
- Avoid commitments, particularly of the delayed variety; they are more insidious. Also, be definite about commitments made to you by others. When the storm comes, misunderstandings are so easy and so natural.
- In both 1920 and 1929, the so-called 'big fellows' in general said everything was okay. But if the big fellows in general thought otherwise the stage could not be set for the unexpected. Panics occur because the leaders themselves have lost their way.
- Never borrow money without continually reviewing and questioning your ability to pay it back under the worst conditions.
- It's right to be an optimist, but always be prepared for the worst.
- People borrow money in good times and pay it back in bad times - just the opposite of what they should do.
- The public is just as blind in recognizing the bottom of a depression as it is in recognizing the top of a boom. While there is no ladder that reaches to Heaven, the ladder that reaches all the way down to Hell in a country like America is just as fantastic.
- A reputation for fair and honest dealing will be your greatest asset.
- As my father used to say, 'Don't forget, the soup is never eaten as hot as it is cooked.'

Thank you Carol. I will never forget the 'old lessons'.

The Management Lab

The Management Lab = Management Innovation
www.managementlab.org

Heard On The Street

We are in trendless markets. Find a good colored stone + diamond/colored diamond selection, do your homework; there's plenty of value out there, but it's all about selection, really.

Le Corbusier's Legacy

Audio slideshow: Le Corbusier's legacy
http://news.bbc.co.uk/today/hi/today/newsid_7894000/7894066.stm

Useful links:
www.barbican.org.uk
www.fondationlecorbusier.asso.fr

Le Corbusier who was famous for being one of the pioneers of what now is called Modern architecture, was also an urban planner, painter, sculptor, writer, and modern furniture designer. I am a huge fan.

A Zero-Carbon Home

Eco-home uses medieval technique
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/kent/7896287.stm
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/gallery/2009/feb/18/grand-designs-crossway-eco-home-kent?picture=343387569

Useful link:
www.hawkesarchitecture.co.uk

I loved it. Hats off to Richard.

Video Game Update

Grand Theft Auto: The story continues, as gritty as ever
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/02/18/arts/18gta.php
http://www.rockstargames.com/grandtheftauto

Useful links:
www.rockstargames.com

I think Grand Theft Auto defines your own tastes/preferences + the immersive experience.

Global Business @ BBC

Peter Day's World of Business profiles Liam Casey and PCH International, based in the Chinese city of Shenzhen + a new business model called capitalism without capital @ http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/programmes/global_business.shtml

Useful link:
www.pchintl.com

Gold Market Update

GFMS Limited has released The Gold Demand Trends on behalf of World Gold Council (WGC) for peer review. The report highlights a surge in demand for gold jewelry, bars and coins + investment demand for gold, including gold exchange traded funds (ETFs).

Go to www.gfms.co.uk for further info.

Useful link:
www.gold.org

Code Of The West

Code of the West by Aaron Latham is a great read + in my view the rules that the cowboys follow are good for life/trade. A must read.

Useful link:

www.aaronlatham.com

Olderpreneurs

Silver start-ups could come of age
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/12df6abc-fd00-11dd-a103-000077b07658.html?nclick_check=1

Useful links:
www.lukejohnson.org
www.riskcapitalpartners.co.uk
www.encore.org

Luke, I completely agree. Many of us will have to work until we are well past 60. Great essay and inspiring, really. Thank you Luke.

Celebrate Pensacola

The Spanish royals are visiting Pensacola to mark the 450th anniversary of the landing of Spanish explorer Don Tristan de Luna. Go to www.celebratepensacola.com for further info.

Best Blogs 2009

TIME's Best Blogs of 2009
http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1879276_1879279,00.html

Great review.

Silk Road Treasures

Rare treasures from the Silk Road
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/02/17/arts/seno.php

Useful links:
www.hku.hk/hkumag
www.hermitagemuseum.org
www.ntm.gov.tw
www.fine-arts-museum.be
http://idp.bl.uk

The insights of the Silk Road and its once-mighty trade hubs are unique reminders of cultures and influences. I have always been interested in the past because the exceptional quality of the antiquities highlight cultural diversity/impact. It's inspiring, really.

A Grand Collection

Paris: A Grand Collection at the Grand Palais
http://blogs.iht.com/tribtalk/travel/globespotters/?p=692
http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2009/02/15/magazine/20090215-ysl-slideshow_index.html

Useful links:
www.grandpalais.fr
www.ysl.com

A must visit. The collection will be on display to the public at the Grand Palais, on February 21 + 22, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. to midnight, and on February 23, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Admission is free.

HRD Antwerp

The new HRD Antwerp website www.hrd.be looks great and interactive.

CIBJO Congress 2009

CIBJO, the World Jewellery Confederation's 2009 Congress will be hosted by the Turkey Jewelry Association and will take place in Istanbul, Turkey, from May 3 - 5, at the Ciragan Palace Kempin.

Useful links:
www.cibjo.org
www.immib.org.tr

Bill Cunningham Viewpoint

On the Street A Fashion Love Affair
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/02/13/fashion/20090215-street-feature/index.html#

Thank you Bill. I enjoyed it.

Prison Entrepreneurship Program

Turning crack dealers into chief executives
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7839957.stm

Useful links:
www.prisonentrepreneurship.org
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn5oyytSchI

Inspiring initiative. Hats off to Catherine. Thanks Lucy for sharing the story.

Raman Spectroscopy/Gemology

Raman spectroscopy is becoming an important analytical gem testing instrument in gemology. It's quick and reliable + provides information on treatments in diamond/colored stones, origin determinations, classification of inclusions, fillers and coloring materials. Though expensive, portable/affordable versions are available for gem identification and research applications. The online RRUFF Database have also become useful for gemologists to compare/analyze spectrums of most colored stones/diamonds + mineral specimens.

Useful links:
www.rri.res.in
http://rruff.info

Lead Glass Treated Ruby/Blue Sapphire

Glass or Corundum, that's the Question
http://www.gemlab.net/website/gemlab/fileadmin/user_upload/Research/GEMLAB-Research-Newsletter-09-2008.pdf

Useful link:
www.gemlab.net

Lead glass treated rubies/blue sapphires has become so abundant in the market, I am wondering whether the treated stones should be called corundum, really. Today treated stones have become perfect tools for scams because many people are unaware that the lead-glass treatment exists + the materials are sold at low prices. If you are doubtful always consult a reputed gem testing laboratory.

Real-life Environment

Invaluable tips from the coal face
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/ebd23b68-fc3f-11dd-aed8-000077b07658.html

If you just sit around a boardroom table, you don’t have a clue. In fact, we often find that many of our clients don’t really understand what motivates people at the sharp end.
- Kuljit Kaur

Useful link:
www.summersault.co.uk

There’s no substitute for immersion, really. Thank you Rhymer.

Heard On The Street

Fortunes are made at bottoms not at tops.

Elle Muliarchyk

The Immaculate Collection
http://themoment.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/02/13/the-immaculate-collection

Useful link:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtAJY4spSVw

Definitely guerilla style tactics + the photographs are stunningly beautiful/artistic.

U.S. Jewelry Census 2008

IDEX Online Research: 2008 U.S. Jewelry Census Confirms Industry Consolidation
http://www.idexonline.com/portal_FullNews.asp?SID=&id=31917

Useful links:
www.kennethgassman.com
www.jewelersboard.com

Thank you Ken for the jewelry industry update.

Ring Seller

Ring Seller Makes A Living Out Of Love
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=100655882

Once, a woman came in to buy a ring for her fiance. "She says, 'Tell me — if he doesn't like it, could I give it back to you?' " Schifrin recalls. "I said, 'No, this is a custom job. I'm making the ring special for your fiance.' She gave me the order, gave me the deposit and says, 'This is what I want engraved in there: No refunds, no returns.' " Schifrin laughs and says, "I couldn't get over that."

A great story. Bill is enjoying his business and his life.