Hello Orchid! I have been an off and on member of Orchid for a few years and love the community and wealth of knowledge available here. My name is Laura Gasparrini, and I'm the principle designer of Om Tara! Temple Arts and create inspired adornment for women. I teach beadwork at our local community college adult division and through private classes as well. Currently I am in the process of creating beading-based tours to Asia and other parts of the world in connection with my husband's tour business - he is from Bhutan and leads tours there. My work is quite diverse while centered around the art of adornment, the beauty of metal, pearls and stone and the great opportunity to share my love of beadwork and creative expression with others. I am writing to ask for any suggestions of reputable gem markets for gemstone beads and places to buy hill tribes silver in Bangkok. I have been to Bangkok three times now, once for a weeks stay and twice as a stopover on our way to Bhutan. I am planning on bringing a group of students this spring, and they are interested in silks, gemstones, pearls and thai silver. Any suggestions of markets, places of interest, accommodations and things to keep in mind would be greatly appreciated! I am looking forward to our ongoing communications! And thanks! - Laura; www.omtara.com