Here is an inspiring report about David Martin from upper state New York who has decided to spend his two years of retirement cataloging stained glass windows.

He plans to share his photographs online and publish a book. Meantime, take a look at this article and short video report ...

Minerals that were familiar only to gem collectors a few years back are now taking their place as centerpieces in jewelry designs, expanding the possiblities for demonstrating the wearer's personal attitude and style. Starting with translucent Montana agate I began designing these earrings and find there's something very satisfying in creating them, so I've started a collection, highlighting my favorites in the above photo. The stones are handpicked from rough, discarding the majority to find gem quality and then the handcutting and polishing work begins. They are matched with halves that are a right and left, which can be difficult to accomplish, but worth doing so that each pair of earrings is truly made for each other. If I had to pick, the The Austrialian boulder opal earrings are my favorite. When the stones are ready, I use traditional goldsmithing methods, yellow gold and white gold from 14k to 24k, 24k yellow gold granulation here and there, and combining different natural stones, including diamonds, sapphires, fire opals, garnets, and moonstone. These earrings come alive and look stunning when worn, so I think I'll continue making more! -Al

In their well-known attempts to make gold, alchemists also provided the foundation for modern chemistry and material sciences. Known as holding the most comprehensive collection of glass in the world, The Corning Museum of Glass explores Northern European glass of the Baroque period and presents the technical advances in glassmaking made by alchemists during that time. Included in this examination is the creation of colorless lead crystal and gold ruby - - two key developments in the history of glass production and artistry. The Corning Museum of Glass opens Glass of the Alchemists: Lead Crystal-Gold Ruby, 1650–1750 on June 27, 2008.

Stained glass artist Erin Moffat created this rich crimson colored Celtic knot suncatcher using the Tiffany copper foil method. More of her work including her original acrylic paintings in luxuriant colors and textures can be found in her shop, Colour and Light, and you can learn more about this artist by visiting her blog. Erin writes, "I adore the beauty of glass, and I am so happy to be able to create with it!" - - and, Erin, we look forward to seeing more!

Panel of cobalt blue chip glass from Living Glass Art

Delicate fused glass dish in a breezy-colored basket weave design from Striking Glass

Oak leaf made from beer bottle glass from Western Art Glass

These cuffs are bursting with light and color, and are entirely handmade! After cutting, heating and shaping by hand, I employ over a dozen handmaking steps so these original designs transform into cuffs, each with an amazing depth of color that shimmers from within! The last step involves sealing with shiny resin. The same designs and method are used for rings too. I love how the colors pop! -Caroline

The Lyman Conservatory at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts is hosting its annual Spring Bulb Show. While visiting yesterday morning, I snapped a picture of this orchid, which to me looks like milky translucent stained glass petals - - don't you think so too? The Spring Bulb Show runs until next Sunday, March 16 and is worth a visit if you happen to be nearby.

Here is a beautiful silent film that shows the making of a stained glass window. This film was produced in co-operation with James Powell and sons. Watch it for a few seconds, and then I'm sure you'll be drawn in to see it right to the end!

Clicking around Etsy I found this votive of pearly teal flowers, handmade by Racquel's Mosaics. These votives are offered in different styles, and I think it's the candle glow shining through the raised surface of hand-cut stained glass that makes them look enchanting. Raquel's adventures in mosaics are blogged and she is also starting a website, featuring the most whimsical mosaic creations. 'Glad I clicked around Etsy today!