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Sunday, September 07, 2025

Aesthetic Dining: The Art Restaurant Around the World By Dr. Christina Makris

Looking for restaurants where food meets fine art?

This book examines the intersection of dining and visual art in restaurants worldwide.


Here’s what you’ll discover inside:

What Is an Art Restaurant?

  • A space where the food on your plate and the art on the walls create a full sensory experience

  • A tradition that began in the early 20th century at Kronenhalle, Zürich

  • Places where artists gather, chefs collect art, and the dining room becomes a gallery

Where Art Meets Cuisine

  • Follow stories from Provence to Cairo, Hong Kong to Sydney, and Santa Monica to New York

  • Learn how global restaurants integrate original artworks into their design and culture

  • See how art influences menus, mood, and memory

Artists Share Their Table

Contemporary artists open up about their dining experiences:

  • Peter Blake, Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin, and others reveal where they like to eat

  • Stories of creating artwork for restaurants

  • What it feels like to dine under their own pieces

Chefs and Restaurateurs on Art

Top names in food share their perspective:

  • Massimo Bottura, Daniel Boulud, Marcus Samuelsson, Mark Hix, and Leah Chase

  • How they collect and display art in their restaurants

  • How art shapes the way they cook and serve

Why This Book Matters to You

  • Curious about where chefs and artists cross paths?

  • Want to visit places where art enhances your meal?

  • Looking for travel ideas with deeper cultural meaning?

. This book offers both inspiration and a guide.
. It shows you how to enjoy dining not just with taste, but with your eyes and mind, too.

Tonight In Jungleland: The Making Of Born To Run By Peter Ames Carlin

 What’s this book about?

  • Tonight in Jungleland tells the inside story of how Bruce Springsteen created Born to Run

  • The book comes out in August 2025, marking the album's 50th anniversary

  • Written by Peter Ames Carlin, author of Bruce, with rare access to Springsteen’s team

Why should you read it?

  • You get a close-up look at the writing and recording of each track

  • It covers everything from the opening of “Thunder Road” to the end of “Jungleland”

  • Carlin shares detailed stories that never came out before

  • The book uncovers the pressure Springsteen felt while making the album

  • You’ll see how these songs shaped his path and changed his life


What’s inside the book?
  • The creative chaos behind “Born to Run”

  • The studio struggles that pushed Springsteen to the edge

  • Real moments with the E Street Band during long recording nights

  • How Springsteen wrote about working-class life, freedom, and escape

  • What it took to turn raw drafts into timeless tracks

Key highlights

  • "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out" reveals tensions and loyalty in the band

  • "Thunder Road" started with a piano and turned into a personal anthem

  • "Backstreets" captured heartbreak with raw honesty

  • "Jungleland" closed the album with a soaring, cinematic sound

Who is this book for?

  • You love Bruce Springsteen and want more than just the music

  • You care about how great albums are made

  • You’re curious about the choices and chaos behind a classic

  • You want the full story—from the studio floor to the streets of New Jersey

Why now?

  • Born to Run turns 50 in August 2025

  • It’s still one of the most played, studied, and celebrated rock albums ever

  • This is your chance to go behind the curtain and hear what really happened

Ask yourself

  • What made Born to Run feel so different from other records in 1975?

  • How did Springsteen stay true to his voice under pressure from the label?

  • Could one album really make or break a career?

Where to find the book

Bvlgari x Lee Ufan Octo Finissimo Ultra-Thin Limited-Edition Watch

Discover the Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Lee Ufan Special Edition watch - a limited 150-piece collection featuring an ultra-thin titanium design, mirror-effect dial, and Swiss automatic movement. Artist collaboration meets luxury watchmaking.

Product Overview

Model: Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Lee Ufan Special Edition
Reference: 104132
Production: Limited to 150 pieces worldwide
Price Range: Premium luxury segment

Technical Specifications

Movement Details

  • Caliber: BVL 138 manufacture movement
  • Thickness: 2.23mm ultra-thin profile
  • Type: Automatic winding with platinum microrotor
  • Frequency: 21,600 VpH (3Hz)
  • Power Reserve: 60 hours
  • Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds
  • Finishing: Hand-decorated Côtes de Genève, chamfering, perlage

Case Construction

  • Material: Hand-filed titanium
  • Diameter: 40mm
  • Thickness: 5.50mm
  • Shape: Octagonal signature design
  • Bezel: Stainless steel with sunray polish
  • Water Resistance: 30 meters
  • Crown: Sandblasted titanium with black ceramic insert

Dial and Display

  • Finish: Mirror-effect coating
  • Color Transition: Grey to black gradient
  • Hands: Black treated for contrast
  • Markers: Minimalist hour indices
  • Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating

Bracelet and Buckle

  • Material: Hand-filed titanium
  • Style: Integrated design matching case
  • Buckle: Titanium folding mechanism
  • Comfort: Lightweight titanium construction

Lee Ufan Artistic Collaboration

This special edition celebrates the work of renowned Korean artist Lee Ufan. His minimalist philosophy appears throughout the watch design.

The mirror-effect dial reflects Ufan's exploration of space and reflection. The grey-to-black transition embodies his use of subtle tonal variations.

The transparent caseback features Ufan's signature alongside the individual edition number. This personal touch connects each timepiece to the artist's legacy.

Why Choose This Limited Edition?

Exclusivity Factor

Only 150 pieces exist worldwide. This scarcity makes each watch a collector's investment.

Artistic Heritage

You own a piece of contemporary Korean art history. Lee Ufan's international recognition adds cultural value.

Technical Excellence

The BVL 138 movement represents Bvlgari's ultra-thin expertise. Few manufacturers achieve this level of miniaturization.

Material Quality

Hand-filed titanium offers durability with lightweight comfort. The process requires skilled craftsmanship.

Investment Potential

Limited artist collaborations typically appreciate over time. The combination of Bvlgari's reputation and Ufan's art market presence creates strong resale potential.

Care and Maintenance

Daily Wearing

The 30-meter water resistance handles daily activities but avoid swimming or showering.

Titanium scratches differently than steel. Minor marks can be professionally polished.

Service Intervals

Bvlgari recommends service every 3-4 years for optimal performance.

The ultra-thin movement requires specialized expertise during maintenance.

Storage Tips

Store in the original box when not wearing. The mirror dial shows fingerprints easily.

Wind the watch regularly if not worn daily to maintain accuracy.

Who Should Buy This Watch?

Art Collectors

You appreciate contemporary Korean art and want wearable pieces in your collection.

Watch Enthusiasts

You value technical achievement in ultra-thin movements and limited production numbers.

Luxury Investors

You seek alternative assets that combine craftsmanship, artistry, and exclusivity.

Style Conscious Buyers

You want a conversation piece that reflects sophisticated taste and cultural awareness.

Availability and Purchasing

Contact authorized Bvlgari dealers for availability. Most pieces sell through established collector networks.

Expect waiting lists at popular boutiques. Consider multiple dealers to improve your chances.

Verify authenticity through official channels. The limited nature attracts counterfeiters.

Document your purchase with all original papers for future resale value.

Final Assessment

The Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Lee Ufan Special Edition succeeds as both timepiece and art object. The technical execution meets the highest Swiss standards while honoring Korean artistic traditions.

Your investment buys into three markets: luxury watches, contemporary art, and Swiss craftsmanship. Few pieces offer this combination of cultural significance and mechanical excellence.

The 150-piece limitation ensures exclusivity without being impossibly rare. You join a select group of collectors who appreciate this cross-cultural collaboration.

Consider this watch if you value artistic heritage alongside technical mastery. The mirror dial and ultra-thin profile create a unique presence on the wrist.

CIBJO Precious Metals Commission Report 2025

CIBJO Precious Metals Commission releases 2025 market report showing gold peaked at $3,500. Analysis covers platinum, palladium, and silver markets with ESG sustainability focus ahead of the Paris Congress.


Gold Reaches Historic $3,500 Peak in 2025

The precious metals market experienced major shifts in 2025. Gold prices soared to an unprecedented $3,500 per ounce on April 22, 2025.

This price surge affected trading patterns across all precious metals. Investors turned to gold as economic uncertainty grew worldwide.

CIBJO Congress Approaches with New Market Insights

The 2025 CIBJO Congress opens in Paris on October 27, 2025. The Precious Metals Commission prepared this third special report for the event.

Vaishali Banerjee leads the commission. Her team analyzed current market conditions across four key metals:

  • Gold
  • Platinum
  • Palladium
  • Silver

Electric Vehicle Revolution Changes Metal Demand

The rise of electric cars reshaped precious metals demand. Some metals saw reduced industrial use. Others experienced increased demand for battery technology and electrical components.

This shift created new supply and demand patterns. Traditional automotive catalysts needed fewer certain metals. Clean energy applications required more of others.

Market Volatility Defines 2024-2025 Period

Regional dynamics shifted across global precious metals markets. Economic divergence created new trading patterns.

Inflation uncertainty drove investors toward safe-haven assets. Geopolitical tensions added pressure to supply chains.

What Shapes the Future of Precious Metals?

Several factors will drive the market forward:

Gold Markets Record-high prices change investment strategies. Central banks continue accumulating reserves.

Platinum Demand
Jewelry demand shows growth potential. Industrial applications remain strong.

Palladium Supply Supply pressures continue affecting prices. Alternative materials gain attention.

Silver's Energy Role Clean energy transition increases silver demand. Solar panels and batteries drive consumption.

Sustainability Takes Center Stage

ESG principles now guide precious metals trading. Sustainable mining practices become standard requirements.

Supply chain transparency matters more to buyers. Environmental impact assessments affect sourcing decisions.

Questions for Your Investment Strategy

How will record gold prices affect your portfolio?

Which precious metals benefit most from clean energy growth?

What role does sustainability play in your metal sourcing decisions?

Looking Ahead to October 2025

The Paris Congress will address these market changes. Industry leaders will discuss adaptation strategies.

You can expect new guidelines on sustainable practices. Supply chain management will feature prominently in discussions.

The precious metals sector continues adapting to global changes. Your understanding of these trends helps guide better decisions in this evolving market.

The CIBJO Precious Metals Commission published its third pre-congress report ahead of the October 2025 Paris Congress. Led by Vaishali Banerjee, the report examines gold, platinum, palladium, and silver markets. Gold reached a record $3,500 per ounce in April 2025, driving policy changes across all precious metal sectors. The report highlights supply chain pressures, the impact of electric vehicles on metal demand, and growing emphasis on sustainability practices.

Antwerp Diamond District Hosts Eight Major Auctions This September 2025

Antwerp diamond district becomes global trading hub with 8 simultaneous auctions, 1,800 diamantaires, and $90 million in rough diamonds from Botswana, Canada, and Lesotho.

Record-Breaking September Activity in Antwerp

The Antwerp diamond district experiences unprecedented activity this month. Eight diamond auctions take place simultaneously, with four running during the first week of September.

More than 1,800 diamantaires travel from around the world to Antwerp. They compete for 900 parcels of rough diamonds.

Bonas Auction House in Antwerp provides the only facility worldwide with capacity for such large-scale operations.

Why Antwerp Dominates Global Diamond Trading

Karen Rentmeesters leads the Antwerp World Diamond Centre. She explains why producers choose Antwerp over other locations:

  • Critical mass of buyers and sellers creates optimal bidding conditions
  • Stable business environment with reliable trading partners
  • Unique ecosystem that exists nowhere else globally
  • Improved visa procedures make international travel easier
  • Strategic timing allows diamonds to reach stores for year-end sales

The Belgian Consulate in Mumbai works with AWDC to streamline visa processes. This effort brings more international buyers to Antwerp auctions.

September represents the final opportunity for diamond purchases. Rough diamonds bought now can still be cut, polished, and transformed into jewelry for the crucial holiday season.

Bonas Sets Global Standard for Diamond Auctions

Philip Hoymans manages Bonas's auction house operations. The facility offers unmatched capacity for diamond trading:

  • 32 viewing rooms provide space for simultaneous auctions
  • 191 security cameras monitor all auction activities
  • 8 bailiffs oversee auction proceedings
  • 2,000 daily weight-checks ensure no stones go missing
  • 13,000 expected bids across 900 diamond parcels

The auction house handles 850,000 carats of rough diamonds. This equals 170 kilograms with an estimated value of $90 million.

Global Sources of Rough Diamonds

The September auctions feature diamonds from seven countries:

  • Botswana
  • Canada
  • Lesotho
  • Brazil
  • Tanzania
  • Namibia
  • Angola

Each country contributes unique diamond characteristics to the global market.

Understanding Diamond Tender Process

Diamond tenders connect mining companies directly with diamantaires. The process works through structured bidding on composed parcels.

Mining companies sell rough diamonds straight from mines. Bonas acts as service provider, organizing tenders with mining companies.

The auction house provides market expertise, trained staff, and complete infrastructure. This system helps mining companies reach optimal sale prices for their diamonds.

Market Impact and Future Outlook

Antwerp's September diamond rush demonstrates the city's continued dominance in global diamond trading. The concentration of buyers, sellers, and infrastructure creates market conditions found nowhere else.

International cooperation between AWDC and diplomatic partners strengthens Antwerp's position. Streamlined visa processes and reliable business practices attract diamantaires worldwide.

The timing of September auctions aligns with jewelry industry needs. Diamonds purchased now enter the supply chain for holiday season sales in major markets like the United States.

The Antwerp diamond district reinforces its position as the world's leading diamond trading hub with eight auctions scheduled for September 2025. Over 1,800 diamantaires will bid on 900 parcels of rough diamonds worth $90 million, sourced from seven countries. Bonas Auction House provides the world's largest capacity with 32 viewing rooms, making simultaneous auctions possible.

Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference 2025: Advancing Sustainable Jewelry Industry Practices

Join the 9th Annual Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference, Oct 17-18, 2025, at Film Row Cinema. Explore sustainable jewelry practices, ethical sourcing, and human rights with industry leaders.

What Is the Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference?

The Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference brings together global leaders in the jewelry industry who are committed to creating positive change.

This year marks the ninth annual gathering. You'll find retailers, suppliers, NGOs, and jewelers working toward the same goal: a more sustainable jewelry industry.

When and Where Does CRJC 2025 Take Place?

Date: October 17-18, 2025
Location: Film Row Cinema, Downtown Chicago
Special Event: Responsible Gem Boutique on October 16

The downtown location makes it easy for you to attend other Chicago events during your visit.

Who Is Leading CRJC 2025?

Brandee Dallow takes the stage as Master of Ceremonies this year.

Dallow brings years of advocacy experience to the role. She knows how to:

  • Guide meaningful discussions
  • Keep audiences engaged
  • Spotlight diverse viewpoints
  • Drive solution-focused conversations

What Topics Will You Explore?

Key Panel Discussions

Human Rights and Environmental Realities of Silver Mining
Learn about the real impact of silver extraction on communities and ecosystems.

Natural Diamonds and Community Futures
Representatives from natural diamond companies and the Kimberley Process Civil Society Coalition share their perspectives on community benefits.

Mine-to-Market Consequences of Undisclosed Synthetic Gemstones
Discover how undisclosed lab-grown stones affect the entire supply chain.

Interactive Learning Opportunities

  • Speed mentoring with ethical jewelry leaders
  • Sector-specific think tanks for collaborative problem-solving
  • Direct access to responsible sourcing brands at the Gem Boutique

Why Does This Conference Matter?

The jewelry industry faces real challenges:

  • Labor rights violations in mining communities
  • Environmental damage from extraction
  • Lack of supply chain transparency
  • Economic inequality in source regions

CRJC addresses these issues head-on. You won't find superficial discussions here.

Who Benefits From Your Participation?

All conference proceeds support Responsible Jewelry Transformative (RJT) programs.

RJT creates real change through:

  • Marange Women's Alliance chicken coops in Zimbabwe
  • Anti-trafficking initiatives in mining areas
  • World Bank Grant projects
  • Community voice amplification programs

Your attendance directly funds these efforts.

What Makes CRJC Different?

Most industry conferences focus on profits and trends. CRJC digs deeper.

You'll tackle uncomfortable truths about:

  • Mining's human cost
  • Supply chain blind spots
  • Consumer responsibility
  • Industry accountability

Who Should Attend CRJC 2025?

This conference serves multiple audiences:

Jewelry Professionals

  • Retailers seeking ethical suppliers
  • Designers wanting traceable materials
  • Manufacturers improving practices

NGO Representatives

  • Human rights advocates
  • Environmental organizations
  • Community development groups

Investors and Stakeholders

  • ESG-focused investors
  • Sustainability consultants
  • Policy makers

How Can You Prepare for CRJC 2025?

Research current industry challenges before attending.

Key areas to explore:

  • Artisanal mining conditions
  • Synthetic stone disclosure requirements
  • Supply chain tracking technology
  • Consumer awareness trends

Come ready to engage, not just observe.

What Impact Has CRJC Created?

Past conferences have sparked real industry changes:

  • New transparency standards adopted by major retailers
  • Increased funding for mining community programs
  • Stronger partnerships between NGOs and companies
  • Better consumer education about ethical sourcing

Your participation continues this momentum.

How Do You Register for CRJC 2025?

Visit the official conference website for registration details and pricing.

Early registration typically offers better rates. Group discounts may apply for organizations sending multiple attendees.

Chicago hotel rooms book quickly during conference season. Reserve your accommodation early.

What Questions Should You Ask at CRJC?

Come prepared with specific questions:

  • How can small retailers verify ethical sourcing claims?
  • What new technologies improve supply chain transparency?
  • How do community programs measure success?
  • What role should consumers play in driving change?

The best conference experiences happen when attendees actively participate.

Why Chicago for This Conference?

Chicago's central location makes it accessible for international and domestic attendees.

The city offers:

  • Major airport connections
  • Extensive public transportation
  • Diverse accommodation options
  • Rich cultural attractions for extending your visit

Film Row Cinema offers a unique and engaging venue that aligns with the conference's forward-thinking approach.

Ready to join the conversation about responsible jewelry? Mark your calendar for October 17-18, 2025, and prepare to connect with industry leaders who are creating real change in the jewelry world.

Victoria Labradorite Pendant By Jamie Turner Designs - Luxury 18k Gold Jewelry

Discover the Victoria Labradorite Pendant by Jamie Turner Designs. Featuring iridescent labradorite stone, diamond halo setting, and 18k yellow gold. Limited edition luxury jewelry from Austin-based designers.


About the Victoria Labradorite Pendant

The Victoria Labradorite Pendant captures attention with its natural stone display. Each labradorite exhibits different color patterns, making every pendant unique.

Key Features:

  • 18k yellow gold setting
  • Natural labradorite centerstone
  • Diamond halo surround
  • Polished gold finish
  • Chain length: 19-21 inches
  • Limited edition availability

Why Labradorite Makes This Pendant Special

Labradorite creates visual magic through its natural properties. The stone displays flashes of blue, gray, and green that shift as you move. This effect, known as labradorescence, occurs when light reflects off the internal crystal structures.

Your pendant will look different from every angle. The stone's appearance changes throughout the day as lighting conditions vary.

Design Details That Matter

The curved diamond halo adds sparkle around the labradorite center. This design choice frames the stone while allowing maximum light to reach its surface.

The 18k yellow gold setting provides durability and luxury. Gold complements the cool tones in labradorite while creating visual warmth.

The polished finish reflects light, adding brightness to the overall design.

About Jamie Turner Designs

Jamie Turner Designs represents Austin's luxury jewelry craftsmanship. The brand launched in 2022 through a partnership between Robert Turner and master jeweler Patrick Dobbs.

Brand Story:

  • Founded by Texas native Robert Turner
  • Partnership with master jeweler Patrick Dobbs began in 2020
  • Named after Robert's daughter, Jamie
  • Launched as a luxury brand in 2022
  • Specializes in colorful gemstones and 18k gold

Robert Turner started collecting gemstones in the early 2000s. He began designing jewelry in 2017 before partnering with Patrick Dobbs to create the current collection.

Limited Edition Collecting

This pendant comes from a small production run. Each piece uses stones selected from the designers' private gemstone collection.

Limited production means fewer pieces exist. Your pendant joins an exclusive group of jewelry pieces.

The natural variations in labradorite ensure no two pendants look identical. You own a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

Styling Your Victoria Pendant

This pendant works with different necklace lengths. The 19–21-inch chain sits below the collarbone for most wearers.

Layer it with shorter gold chains for a modern look. Wear it alone for classic elegance.

The neutral colors in labradorite pair with most clothing colors. The stone works especially well with blues, grays, and earth tones.

Care Instructions

Clean your pendant with mild soap and warm water. Use a soft brush to remove dirt from the diamond setting.

Store the pendant separately to prevent scratching. Keep it away from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.

Have a professional jeweler inspect the setting annually to ensure diamonds remain secure.

Investment Value

Jamie Turner Designs creates luxury jewelry with lasting appeal. The 18k gold setting maintains value over time.

Limited edition status may increase collectibility. Natural gemstones often appreciate as supplies become scarcer.

Quality craftsmanship ensures your pendant remains beautiful for years.

Geographic Availability

Jamie Turner Designs operates from Austin, Texas. The brand serves customers across the United States through authorized retailers.

Contact local luxury jewelry stores to inquire about availability. Some pieces require special ordering due to limited production.

The Victoria Labradorite Pendant showcases the natural beauty of labradorite stone with its shifting blue, gray, and green colors. Each piece features a unique stone surrounded by diamonds and set in 18k yellow gold. This limited-edition pendant comes from Jamie Turner Designs, an Austin luxury jewelry brand founded by Robert Turner and master jeweler Patrick Dobbs.

Saturday, September 06, 2025

NeQuila™: Real Tequila, Zero Alcohol – The Bold New Spirit From Mexico

NeQuila™ by León Y Sol is a true zero-proof tequila—crafted from real agave, distilled in Mexico, and expertly de-alcoholized. No additives. No substitutes. Just tequila without the alcohol.

What Is NeQuila™?
NeQuila™ is not a mocktail mix.
It’s not a substitute or imitation.

It’s real tequila—with the alcohol removed.


What Makes It Different?

  • Starts with real tequila, made from high-quality agave in Mexico

  • Uses traditional distillation methods

  • Undergoes a special alcohol-removal process

  • Keeps the full body, bold taste, and natural agave character

  • No added flavors, colors, or chemicals

What You Get

  • A zero-proof spirit that drinks like tequila

  • Smooth on its own

  • Bold in cocktails

  • No fuzziness

  • No hangover

  • No limits

Why It Matters

You love the taste of tequila.
You want the ritual. The bite. The feel.
But not the alcohol.

Now you have a real choice.

How It’s Made

  • Harvested and distilled in the heart of Mexico

  • Crafted with care, using traditional methods

  • The alcohol is gently removed—nothing else changes

No shortcuts. No engineered flavors.
Just the original spirit, reimagined.

Who It's For

  • You, if you're cutting back without compromising taste

  • You, if you're sober, mindful, or just curious

  • You, if you want the tequila experience—without the next-day regret

What Can You Do With It?

  • Sip it neat

  • Mix it in your go-to margarita

  • Shake it with fresh lime and agave for a clean Paloma

  • Add it to premium bar menus or at-home rituals

Why Now?

The world’s ready.
You’re ready.

And so is NeQuila™.

Zero Alcohol. 100% Agave Spirit.
Tequila, redefined.
Available now.