Science
April 7, 2016

Iridescent Opal Dazzles with Neon Fireworks Naturally Hidden Within

At first glance, the Ethiopian Welo Opal looks like something created in a lab. The dazzling gem radiates neon colors that seem almost too vibrant to be naturally occurring. It's completely real, however, and showcases a harmonious mixture of yellows, reds, greens, and blues. When rotated, the stone sets off a firework-like display of these hues. This opal is relatively new in the commercial gem world.

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Photojournalism
April 6, 2016

Tourist Illegally Documents Trip to North Korea and Shares Insightful Photos He Smuggled Home

Earlier this year, London-based photographer Michal Huniewicz traveled to one of the most curious countries in the world–North Korea. He was accompanied by a small tour group and two guides who took them around the capital city of Pyongyang. As you might expect, this trip was not an easy one to make. Among numerous restrictions, photography is generally illegal (except in certain areas), but Huniewicz decided to take his camera anyways.

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Architecture
April 5, 2016

Fascinating Photos Highlight the Forgotten Beauty of Abandoned Buildings

Germany-based freelance photographer Matthias Haker has a special artistic interest in exploring the architectural nuances of the many abandoned buildings that he comes across. From decaying ballrooms to forsaken hotel lobbies ostentatiously missing their guests, through his vivid imagery Haker restores a sense of dignity to each of the decrepit structures.

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Design
April 1, 2016

Ingenious Rocking Chair Knits a Hat for You as You Sway Back and Forth

Knitting and sitting in a rocking chair are both relaxing activities that designers Damien Ludi and Colin Peillex have combined into one innovative, low-tech piece of furniture. Aptly dubbed Rocking Knit, this multitasking chair uses kinetic energy, produced from the rocker's gliding motion, to knit a winter hat as you gently sway back and forth. The chair both resembles and is used as a typical wooden glider.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.