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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Artbeads

Artbead caters to individual artists + bead stores + professional designers worldwide. A must-visit.

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.