Kong Lung Trading: Staff Picks for May 2011

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Design Solutions for function and aesthetics

May 2011

 KleinReid Ceramics  Blenko Glass at Kong Lung Trading

cover from the book entitled "Nobody's Fool"Innobaby Stackables

Fine design is the driving passion behind all of Kong Lung Trading’s wonderful products. We define—our basically indefinable collection—as “transcendent” because it goes beyond expectation. Even the simplest things are made more beautifully and with more concern for function. It is with this in mind we present the following items. We hope you enjoy our choices. Please call us at 808-828-1822 to find out more information. Or even better, to see all of our favorites, come visit us at Kong Lung Trading.

Rootworks bowls on display at Kong Lung TradingOlive wears a Up Country  collarPatty’s Pick: INNOBABY

Innobaby was established in 2006 by two moms on a mission to develop and deliver great solutions for common baby issues. Let us just say, Mission Accomplished!

A visit to their web site puts in perspective how well received the Innobaby products such as Din Din Smart Stainless Divided Platter, Packin’ SMART Transportation products and the Bamboo Seat Topper Din DIn Divided food trayreally are. Magazines such as Pregnancy & Newborn, American Baby, Storage, and Green Child have expounded the benefits of Innobaby’s stylish and functional designs. They have been featured on numerous tv news programs, endorsed by celebrities and won several parent and child-based awards such as The National Parenting Center Award, Creative Child Magazine’s Top Choice and Seal of Excellence awards. Prices from $24 – $39.50

Deborah Cecil Deborah’s Pick:
KLEINREID

KleinReid Eva VasesKleinReid (James Klein and David Reid) have been collaborating for over 15 years with a goal of thoughtful design, fine craftsmanship and lasting beauty. This cutting edge, yet classic designed line of ceramics blurs the line between craft and art, merging industrial techniques and artisanal quality

Most notably, the dynamic duo has collaborated with design legend Eva Zeisel to produce the “Eva” line. Its pieces are in the collections of the White House and many museums. Kong Lung Trading carries the Kokeshi, Hawthorne, Aubrey and Eva Collections. Prices from $50 to $288.KleinReid vases from the Aubrey Collection

Janet TevesBlenko Glass Watercraft water pitchersJanet’s Pick:
BLENKO GLASS

Janet states very plainly, “I love Blenko. I bought Blenko’s Watercraft pitchers and use them as a vase as well. Beautiful and serves two purposes as well. It makes me happy just to look at them!”Blenko Glass' Daisey bowls

Blenko Glass Company has been a family owned and operated company since 1893. Their history is rich and interesting and tells the story of a family dedicated to fine craft and the art of glass. Prices from $36 to $265.

The famous Mochi andOlive of Kong LungOlive & Mochi’s Pick:
JONATHAN’S WILD CHERRY SPOONS
JONATHAN'S WILD CHERRY SPOONS spaghetti forks

Handcrafted in Pennsylvania from sustainably harvest wood. Beautiful and functional these wooden utensils bring a sense of beauty and inspiration to any kitchen. The Original Lazy Spoon is a favorite of Rachael Ray and was featured as one of Oprah’s favorite things in ‘O’ Magazine. Christina Perillo, health advocate, and host of the PBS cooking show ‘Christina Cooks’ loves Jonathan’s Wild & Crazy collection. JONATHAN'S WILD CHERRY SPOONS mini spatulasJonathan’s Spoons create spoons for all your kitchen needs: baking, cooking, mixing and stirring; plus we offer spoons for left handed chefs! Our folding tongs are fantastic for serving salads and baked potatoes, as well as multiple kitchen tasks. Every kitchen in America needs one (or more)! Prices from $12 to $65.

Cover of Spice BibleBook of the Month:
THE SPICE BIBLE

by Jane Lawson

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
A fully comprehensive guide to the history and culinary uses of 45 fiery foods from around the world. Each entry—from ajowan through wolfberry—includes a description of the spice’s origin and uses, guidelines on how to integrate it into your own cooking, and a trove of other helpful information.A spread from Stables

This must-have book also features more than 250 recipes that highlight each ingredient’s distinctive taste and character. All created with flavorful spices and easily mastered by any cook.

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Kong Lung Trading: Spring Picks for 2011

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Spring Has Sprung

April 2011

 

 Up COuntry Pet Products  Recycled glass tray by Mermaid Treasures

  Moon Alley Candles are available at Kong Lung  cover from the book entitled "Nobody's Fool"

We are excited for Spring’s arrivals. Each day’s deliveries bring fun new products, books, and gifts to our store. It is always difficult to pick one item from the ever-changing inventory, but we must. We hope you enjoy our choices this month. Please call us at 808-828-1822 to find out more information. Or even better, to see all of our favorites, come visit us at Kong Lung Trading.

Janet TevesA lovely Moon Alley CandleJanet’s Pick:
MOON ALLEY

Handcrafted in Murphys, California, these unique candles are created with premium paraffin wax and a zinc core wick. A wonderful feature of these candles is that after burning for a sufficient period of time, a new refill can be inserted to extend the life of the candle.

But the true beauty of these candles is, well, their beauty. As Janet exclaimed, “They are a piece of art.” Stop by Kong Lung Trading to be illuminated by Moon Alley Candles. Prices $70 – $95.

Rootworks bowls on display at Kong Lung TradingPatty’s Pick:
UP COUNTRY DOG COLLARSOlive wears a Up Country  collar

If you know anything about Kong Lung Trading and Patty, you know that it is a dog’s world and we are only here to serve. So it is no surprise that Patty picked Up Country Dog Products.

Stylish, durable and really fun, their collars are designed to fit the personality of all of our little friends. Each product is hand-sewn by their experienced staff and hand-finished to ensure product quality. Kong Lung Trading is offering toys, key rings and leashes as well as a large assortment of collars. Price $24 each.

Deborah Cecil Deborah’s Pick:
DANA KELLIN JEWELRY

A Dana Kellin Necklace

According to Deborah, “We have carried Dana Kellin in the past, but the new collection is Gorgeous!” The Willow Mix Collection is in stock now and features Swarovski Crystal, green amethyst, pearl, moss aqua, apatite, precoisa crystal and that famous Dana Kellin wire wrapping. This collection is described perfectly by Deborah as, “Romantic, but with an edge.” Prices $176 – $565.

Cover of "Stables"Book of the Month:
THE ART OF THE MUSCLE CAR

by David Newhardt, photos by Peter Harholdt

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
“Just what is a Muscle Car?” Road Test magazine asked in its June 1967 issue. The answer: “Exactly what the name implies. It is a product of the American car industry adhering to the hot rodder’s philosophy of taking a small car and putting a BIG engine in it…The Muscle Car is Charles Atlas kicking sand in the face of the 98 hp weakling.” Unconcerned with the style or sophistication of its European counterparts, the American muscle car was built for straight-line speed and quickly became the darling of the power-hungry racer and serious gearhead.A spread from Stables

In the intervening years, these down-and-dirty, high-performing beauties have earned their place in the automotive pantheon. As prized by collectors and aficionados as they are by denizens of garages and drag strips, these cars now fetch millions of dollars at auctions and feature in any story of America’s automotive glory days. The icons of muscle car art are on full display in this lavishly illustrated volume, each described in a detailed essay followed by a gallery of photographs that capture the art of the muscle car at its finest.

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Kong Lung Trading: Staff Picks for March 2011

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For the Love of Texture

March 2011

Necklace by N+A Jewelry   cover from the book entitled "Nobody's Fool"

Recycled glass tray by Mermaid Treasures  Graphique de France note pads

This month we are exploring some of our favorite new items that all share one common trait which is beautiful texture. Texture is something tangible and alluring and adds dimension to your world. Sometimes the simplest items with uncomplicated shapes and designs can be made extravagant and rich with texture, adding a desired elegant and subtle effect. We hope you enjoy our choices this month. Please call us at 808-828-1822 to find out more information. Or even better, to experience the true texture, come visit us at Kong Lung Trading.

Deborah Cecil Deborah’s Pick:
KEVIN O’BRIEN STUDIO THROW PILLOWS

Since it’s inception in a barn in 1990, KOBS’ products have changed the lives of all who have come in contact with them. Kevin hand built everything in the beginning including the equipment that was used to make the products. Quality control was always the focus, and Kevin kept everything within eyesight of his drawing table.

An assortment of pillows by Kevin O'Brien StudioOn a trip to Nepal, Kevin realized that there were people who were better equipped and more experienced to handle the intricate and delicate nature of the production of his pillows, scarves, bedding and rugs.

A texture study of a KOBS pillowAdditionally Kevin found a small number of skilled craftsmen in Vietnam and India, and constructed textile workshops with his own equipment. Even now in China, Kevin has hand-picked skilled artisans, set up a small studio and created a situation where he can be sure that they are not participating in any of the unsavory practices that people worry about when it comes to Chinese Manufacturing. All of this is done to provide you with the finest hand-dyed textiles available.

Stop by to see (and feel) the collection of Kevin O’Brien Studios Throw Pillows. Prices $108 – $240.

Janet TevesJanet’s Pick:
INGRID CUSSON

Janet is always excited to talk about her monthly pick. This month she choose the sumptuous Ingrid Cusson suede book covers. “I have the checkbook cover. I just LOVE it!”

An Ingrid Cusson Journal CoverOnce you see, and then hold one in your hands, you will understand Janet’s enthusiasm. It truly is one of life’s most welcomed luxuries to have something so simple as a address book or journal, covered in the finest quality, buttery suede. A tactile experience of splendor that never tires.

The elegant covers are made from very supple pig suede and decorated with wonderful, elegant and even whimsical photo transfers. Ingrid makes photo albums, business card holders, guest books, diaries and more.

Come by and pick up a few, you never know when you’ll need a sweet little gift to brighten someone’s day. Prices $18 – $85.

Linens at Kong Lung TradingPatty’s Pick:
NYDEL TABLE LINENS

Nydel Table Cloths available at Kong Lung TradingWhen you see these table cloths and napkins you will see that they are very obviously an exceptional product. What Patty likes about them, and surprises her, is how they resonate with men. “I find that men are really interested in these. They bring their wives in because they are so excited.”

A beautiful French Linen table cloth by NydelIt may be Nydel’s emphasis on durability and ease-of-care that attracts the men—Nydel makes sure that your only worry is to enjoy the special evening, not the glass of spilled red wine. But for sure their amazing beauty and elegant texture sets them apart.

With a range of piece-dyed and yarn-dyed cotton jacquards, plain figured cottons, raised lines, waffled taffetas, embroidered linens and cotton sateens, Nydel has an impressive offering of choice linens.

Kong Lung Trading is offering the Soir line with prices ranging from $215 – $350. Come in today to see and feel the best of French Linens.

Cover of "Rear Ends"Book of the Month:
FOUND PHOTOS: REAR ENDS

by Roger Handy & Karin Elsener

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
Rear Ends is a bottom’s up to the backside! On the beach or in the backyard, clad in stripes, bloomers, or nothing at all, behinds are instantly recognizable and always amusing. From cute babies to playful adults who should really know better, the glutei maximi in all of these found photographs are seen bouncing on furniture or tumbling on the ground in impressive displays of gymnastic prowess.A spread from rear ends

Young, old, in black-and-white or in color, bottoms and the comedic possibilities they present are infinite and timeless. Quirky and charming, this cheeky collection of photographs is sure to appeal to anyone with a penchant for the posterior.

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Kong Lung Trading: Staff Picks for February 2011

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Fine Gifts From Kong Lung Trading

February 2011

Graphique de France note pads  Necklace by N+A Jewelry

  cover from the book entitled "Nobody's Fool"  Recycled glass tray by Mermaid Treasures

Rootworks bowls on display at Kong Lung TradingPatty’s Pick: MERMAID TREASURES

If you have spent anytime in the islands of Hawaii, then you know that a jalousie window is characteristic of a typical plantation home. But did you ever think you might find one pretty enough to serve your next dinner guest?

Kauai artist Donna Taylor Mayo has found a way to repurpose these glass louvers and old glass shelves into beautiful serving dishes and platters.Mermaid Treasures kauai, glass recycled platters

Donna’s designs are hand-cut into reusable molds and then the reclaimed glass is heated in a kiln and transformed into these fantastic pieces of art. This multi step process takes a minimum of 14 hours, but the finished result is stunning and eco-friendly.

Kong Lung Trading is offering the Bamboo and Fern designs with prices ranging from $21 – $84. Support a local artist and help the environment.

Deborah CecilDeborah’s Pick: N+A JEWELRY

Ear Rings by N+A Jewelry, New YorkThis exquisite boutique line of jewelry is the collaboration of two sisters, Noriko and Akiko Sugawara. N + A is based out of New York City and all pieces are hand crafted and integrate delicate hand-hammered textures and three dimensional shapes with the essence of Japanese culture.

More N+A ear ringsThese organic creations range from simple petal clusters to more complex designs balancing strong and subtle.

Stop by to see our collection of sterling silver and 18K gold vermeil necklaces and earrings. Prices $130 – $360.

Janet TevesGraphique de FranceJanet’s Pick: GRAPHIQUE DE FRANCE

When Janet was asked to give her pick of the month she gushed, “Graphique de France, look at these fun, cute journals and organizers!” She feels that they make the perfect gift for a girlfriend or hostess and are very affordable.

colorful patterns of Zutano clothesJean-Jacques Toulotte began Graphique de France in Boston over 30 years ago and today his business is a leading international publisher of calendars, stationary, posters and journals. Through change and evolution, one thing has remained constant: Graphique de France’s passion for art and design, combined with a commitment to quality.

Come by and pick up a few, you never know when you’ll need a sweet little gift to brighten someone’s day. Prices $5- $21.

Julie HurstMONKEYPOD JAMSJulie’s Pick: MONKEYPOD JAMS

Produced in small batches on Kauai, Monkeypod Jam is a superb artisan fruit spread utilizing locally grown produce. Pineapple, papaya, lilikoi, guava and ginger are just a few of the enticing ingredients you may find in one of Monkeypod Jam’s terrific marmalades, jams or sauces.

Monkeypod Jams make a lovely gift. Price $14.

Cover of "Stables"Book of the Month: STABLES: BEAUTIFUL PADDOCKS, HORSE BARNS, AND TACK ROOMS
by Kathryn Masson

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
From the private to the historic to the state-of-the-art, a lavish tour of some of the most notable stables in the country. A celebration of horses and their “lodgings,” this exquisite book covers horse country across the United States—from the East Coast to the Bluegrass, the prairie and mountain ranches, and to the Pacific Coast—and traces the origins of twenty-five stunning stables, from their vernacular beginnings in the early nineteenth century to the contemporary designs of today. Included are a farm in the countryside near Saratoga Springs, New York, which bears an 1830s-constructed main barn that originally housed draft horses and now accommodates retired race horses turned polo ponies, and a world-renowned Arabian horse-breeding farm in Santa Ynez Valley, California, that resembles a spa and country club with Mediterranean-style architecture and landscaping and has in the stable courtyard a stone fountain reminiscent of the ubiquitous waterworks in Moorish palaces. Uniquely spectacular, each selection is a reflection of its regional heritage. Featuring all-new color photography, Stables showcases the best of America’s diverse equine homes—a must-have for any horse or architecture enthusiast.A spread from Stables

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Kong Lung Trading: Staff Christmas Picks for 2010

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Kong Lung Trading Perfect Christmas Presents

December 2010

Wooden toys by Melissa & Doug

Necklace by Rand Papele  Spread from the book entitled "Migration"   Funktion Apron

This time of year is always exciting, with the smells of baked goods coming out of the oven and digging out those fun holiday decorations to fill your home. But let’s be honest, we love the gifting! Giving and receiving presents is one of the greatest joys of the holidays. Kong Lung Trading is an ideal place to discover hard to find gifts for everyone on your shopping list. The employees of Kong Lung Trading would like to share a few of their favorite gift ideas for those special presents, stocking stuffers, teacher and co-worker gifts, or even that special treat for a party hostess.

Make your list and simplify your life by having Kong Lung Trading help with all of your gift giving this year. Don’t forget to take advantage of our complimentary gift wrapping on your fabulous finds. And for those friends and family members that are hard to buy for—and we all have them—our gift certificates are a great choice. Wishing you a wonderful holiday and magical moments with those you hold close.

Janet TevesComfortable, fashionable Kiyomi PSJsJanet’s Pick: KIYOMI PJs
Fresh, New & Designed with an Attention to Detail.

Kiyomi pajamas are the ultimate treat at the end of a long day. There’s nothing better than curling up on the sofa with a good book and a cup of tea, while lounging in these heavenly creations. Made in the USA, these unique fabric patterns are so much fun and can easily mix into your wearable wardrobe. Sweet as pjs and cute to wear with jeans, sandals or even heels! Perfect when friends and family are stopping by for an impromptu gathering.

Kiyomi PJs were featured in The Oprah Magazine and this is what she had to say about this wonderful product, “Soft, romantic, and deliciously comfy, these cotton pajamas are great for lounging on a breezy summer night.” Kiyomi Loungewear is the ultimate in luxury and will be a favorite gift for sure.

Deborah CecilMelissa & Doug Wooden Toy Horse Trailer Julie’s Pick: MELISSA & DOUG
Classic Toys

Melissa and Doug’s classic wooden toys are Julie’s top holiday gift choice. When asked why, she remarked how children sit and play forever with these simple, nostalgic toys. She also choose them because they don’t require batteries or electricity.

Melissa & Doug is one of the leading designers and manufacturers of educational toys and children’s products. As a company they pride themselves by offering products with tremendous value, quality and design.

Not only will these old style toys remind you of your childhood, but will provides hours of entertainment for the little ones in your life while helping to promote hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, plus early shape matching, color recognition and sequencing skills.

Come to Kong Lung Trading to see our great selection of Melissa and Doug classic toys.

Rootworks bowls on display at Kong Lung TradingBracelet by Rand papelePatty’s Pick: RAND PAPELE JEWELRY
Jewelry that Reflects Deep Philosophical Beliefs.

This collection of matte and oxidized sterling silver jewelry is the collaborative effort of artists Judith Rand and Eben Papele. The combined vision of these two artists produces inventive designs with eclectic influences from the Victorian and rustic jewelry of antiquity to industrial and modern design. Employing a wide range of fabrication techniques in their New York’s Hudson Valley studio, this design duo places great value on the transformative nature of the creative process and hopes that their jewelry reflects this.

These unique designs are an outstanding find for the holidays. Why not make someone on your list happy by giving them one of these incredible pieces?

Deborah CecilFunktion ApronDeborah’s Pick: FUNKTION APRONS
Not Your Grandmother’s Apron

Keep yourself tidy in the kitchen this holiday by covering up with a fun and flirty Funktion apron. These aprons are a patchwork of vintage styled printed material and have a shabby chic feel, but are hip and sassy. With cascading ruffles or the sweetest trim detail, you will look so good that when your company arrives you might want not want to take it off.

Funktion’s dish towels, oven mitts and aprons will make any kitchen a little brighter and will hopefully inspire some you to explore a few new recipes.

Cover of "Migration"Book of the Month: MIGRATION: LOST AND FOUND IN AMERICA
by Donald McCrea

PUBLISHER NOTES:
This timeless compilation of images of America takes us on a cross-country trip to places we would never discover on our own. These photos document hidden pockets of American culture that remain virtually unchanged and touch on some of the topical issues that are driving our country into the future.

A spread from MigrationAmerica as seen through the eyes of some of the country’s top photographers: Alex Harris, Bill Sosin, Joe Burull, Dave Jordano, David Schalliol, David Zaitz, Donald McCrea, Edward Burtynsky, Jerry Downs, Kenneth Jarecke, Mark Indig, Peter Granser, Susana Raab, Travis Ruse, Will Steacy and William Greiner.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Donald McCrea has been a working musician and songwriter for the past fifty years. He has also been a professional photographer for three decades, serving as a staff photographer for film directors, as well as shooting fashion, architectural, and product photography. His work has been published in Rolling Stone, American Cinematographer, Photographic, and the French edition of Photo.

MIGRATION was just chosen as one of the “Top Ten Books of the Year” by AMERICAN PHOTO and will be featured in their January 2011 issue.

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Kong Lung Trading: Fresh Picks for November 2010

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Kong Lung Trading Employee’s Picks for the Season

November 2010

Blenko Glass Gifty Golden by Douglas Toys Nobby Bowl by Rootworks Ceramic Bowls by Tillson

This month we decided to ask the creative team at Kong Lung Trading to share their ever stylish roundup of favorite picks from the store. With the always changing inventory and fresh store displays, getting the inside scoop of what’s hot at Kong Lung Trading is useful and valued information.

Whether you have been coming to Kong Lung Trading forever because you know you will find the coolest gifts, or if you just like Kong Lung Trading for its inpirational eye candy, we hope you consider Kong Lung Trading to be one of your favorite stores. Please let the staff assist you when looking for those holiday gifts and don’t forget about the complimentary gift wrapping.

Deborah CecilDeborah’s Pick: TORI RICHARDTori Richard Shirts and hats
Inspirational, sophisticated and exotic clothing for the individual who appreciates the finer things in life.

Tori Richard’s apparel is a true reflection of good design and art that is inspired by trends and cultures from around the world. This Hawaiian company’s philosophy is based in the honor or creating fine garments to resonate a life of luxury and style.

Tori Richard began creating men’s wear in 1969, almost 20 years before the founding of Tommy Bahama—a point of pride for Debra when selling these beautiful garments. Tori Richard is a true family business and offers only original prints and artwork on their products, setting them apart from other resort wear companies. The company is also a great resource for designers and artists as they have digitized almost 14,000 of their textile prints for reference.

Please stop in today to browse our hand picked collection of Tori Richard men’s wear. Because of Patty’s amazing buying style many customers see these products in a whole new light. Whether you are looking for a quality shirt made from textured silk, a silk blend or cotton lawn, (the company’s signature and proprietary fabric), you or your loved ones will surely covet these incredible and sophisticated garments for many years to come.

www.toririchard.com

Janet TevesJanet’s Pick: ESTEBANEsteban Scented Boxes
An Appeal to your Senses

Southern France, the fragrance capital of the world, is home to Esteban—a company started in the late 70’s by Jan Max Esteban. This company has been creating scents and imaginative products that convey a love of travel and discovery through fragrance. Esteban is known for their style, which intertwines Mediterranean and Japanese sensibilities, allowing these irresistible aromas to tell their story in your home and to carry you away to a far away land.

Kong Lung Trading carries Esteban’s room sprays, scented boxes, refresher oils and diffusers. The scented boxes are delightful little gift packages containing ceramic pieces, seaglass, river rocks or tribal beads inbued with the essence of the collection’s scent. Each scented box contains different objects that represents the story of the collection’s distinctive smell.

When Janet was asked why she chose to feature Estaban as her pick of the month she replied, “I think these will make really nice gifts for the holidays and the price is excellent. I love these.” Her favorite scent, Ambre, is one of the company’s most popular. It is described as a subtle Amber fragrance, enriched with bergamot and neroli, a serene arousing caress of precious woods and lingering sensuality of vanilla.

The fragrance of Teck & Tonka is a souvenir of Africa, conjuring wooden houses full of spices: nutmeg, cinnamon, clove…Teck & Tonka revives this blend, one of the most entising in the history of perfumes. Each fragrance tells a story, which one will you choose?

www.estebanparis.com

Rootworks bowls on display at Kong Lung TradingPatty’s Pick: HEATHER BENJAMIN JEWELRYDrusy Necklace by Heather Benjamin
Sparkle this Holiday in a Heather Benjamin Drusy Necklace

What is a drusy? A drusy refers to a rock surface (usually a cavity) covered with tiny individual crystals. These sparkly and opalescent crystals provide a reflective surface reminiscent of sugar or snow. Whether the crystals appear on the surface of the mineral or are recessed into a crevice the result is the same, a stunning gemstone. And stunning is a perfect description of Heather’s pieces that incorporate these incredible stones.

By utilizing century old methods of metalsmithing, Heather Benjamin’s jewelry is designed and created around a stone, gem or fossil. Her work is available in a satin or hammered finish, and offered in sterling silver or 22k vermeil. Each stone is bezel set and these designs are inspired by cultures and their relationship to the sea and to nature. Her work has been described as organic elegance meets chic and bohemian and it is this perfect juxtaposition of these elements that makes her jewelry unparalleled in style and creativity.

Kong Lung Trading has a wonderful collection of Heather Benjamin’s fabulous one of a kind jewelry pieces in stock. Come in and pick out your special necklace. Isn’t it time to shine?

Locals Only Book CoverBook of the Month: LOCALS ONLY
by Hugh Holland, edited by Steve Crist

Publisher Notes:
One afternoon in 1975, a young photographer named Hugh Holland drove up Laurel Canyon Boulevard in Los Angeles and Spread from Locals Onlyencountered skateboarders carving up the drainage ditches along the side of the canyon. Immediately transfixed by their grace and athleticism, he knew he had found an amazing subject. Although not a skateboarder himself, for the next three years Holland never tired of documenting skateboarders surfing the streets of Los Angeles, parts of the San Fernando Valley, Venice Beach, and as far away as San Francisco and Baja California, Mexico.

During the mid-1970s, Southern California was experiencing a serious drought, leaving an abundance of empty swimming pools available for trespassing skateboarders to practice their tricks. From these suburban backyard haunts to the asphalt streets that connected them, this was the place that created the legendary Dogtown and Z-Boys skateboarders. With their requisite bleached blonde hair, tanned bodies, tube socks and Vans, these young outsiders are masterfully captured against a sometimes harsh but always sunny Southern California landscape in LOCALS ONLY.

Holland’s skateboard photographs were first shown at M+B Gallery in Los Angeles in 2006. Following the success of the show, his work has been shown in Paris and New York City and used in American Apparel publicity campaigns. Holland resides in Los Angeles.

www.ammobooks.com

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