crystal

Japanese artist Tokujin Yoshioka, who spent years working with Shiro Kuramata and Issey Miyake, and has collaborated with Hermes, Toyota, BMW, and Swarvoski, among others, created this natural crystal chair, titled "Venus." The extraordinary art piece was crystallized over time by submerging a polyester elastomer chair skeleton in an aquarium. Although the chair looks far from comfortable, it's certainly a wonderful example of sustainable design, born out of the laws of nature, not a forest in the Amazon. I'd love to see this technique used to make other products where comfort is less of an issue, such as a lamp base or a coat tree. Yoshioka has curated an exhibit called "Second Nature," which features the chair, at 21_21 Design Sight in Roppongi, Tokyo. The exhibit runs through Jan. 18, 2009, and features the work of a number of other artists, including the Campana brothers. To see more photos of Venus, and how it was made, read more

For the next round of this challenge, I'd like you to look at this Decorative Crystal Glass Ware ($550) from the Czech Republic. Now, imagine that you've been asked to integrate this glass ware into the decorating scheme of a good friend's bridal shower. How could you use this crystal glass ware at a shower? Yes, they'd be great as vases, but how would you make them stand out? What else could you use them for? How might you change them to really amaze the guests and bride-to-be? Tell me by commenting below!

David Wiseman works in a variety of mediums including wood, porcelain, crystal, and bronze, and is inspired by the subtleties in nature, like the texture of bark or the pattern of moss growing on a rock. His designs, which can be found on a tabletop, wrapped around a fireplace, or dangling from the ceiling, highlight these organic details, and bring a romantic, Sleeping Beauty-esque woodland quality indoors. His bronze branches, which sprout porcelain blossoms, are kindred spirits of midcentury bronze wall sculptures, but have a timeless sophistication that supersedes them. His deer head-shaped hat hangers bear the childlike playfulness of Rudolph, white still maintaining a distinct maturity. To continue your introduction and see some of his work, read more

Tivoli Audio has released a special, limited edition crystal Audio System, which while completely impractical provides a fresh look to the usually childish novelty speaker genre. The 30 limited edition speakers cost more than $4,200 (you can get a less exclusive edition for $119.99). No word on whether or not you can connect your $10,000 gold covered shuffle, but I think it's safe to say that's a yes.

Clear, sensual, and raw, these high-clarity jewels are simply stunning. With a skin backdrop they take on a life of their own. I've been wearing the same pair of disco ball-ish crystal stud earrings for months and I just love how the light hits them. Plus, I get compliments on them all the time. Trust me, want a unique piece of jewelry that goes with any color outfit? Look no further.

(L-R)
• RJ Graziano Square Crystal Flower Ring, $25.
• White House Black Market Encased Crystal Bracelet, $38.
• Mali Sabatasso Crystal Druzy Pendant, $220.