News

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34636269 The article above discusses the recent earthquake in Afghanistan and Pakistan which left hundreds dead and many more injured.  This earthquake, when compared to the earthquake of similar intensity that occured in Pakistan in October 2005, did not create the level of damage and destruction witnessed in the 2005 earthquake possibly due to the epicenter being located deeper underground.

http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=KNSPDF0gflUSO9xsj5vntQ%3D%3D&eeid=29543 Shown above is the link to a good cashback website called ebates which allows buyers to earn cashback on online purchases from a variety of different retailers.  It is one of the few cashback websites which allows buyers to earn cash back on eBay.com www.ebates.com

http://www.cnbc.com/id/39863078 The above link discusses the inherent value of fine quality Iranian made carpets in terms of the materials used (i.e. 100% silk), knotting and level of detail, location, and age of the rug.  Rug collectors seek out various designs including qom, tabriz, kashan, nain, and isfahan carpets as these carpets usually appreciate in value over time.    

https://www.etsy.com/market/induscarpets

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/earth/environment/conservation/10073050/Buyers-of-4000-shahtoosh-shawls-are-fuelling-illegal-wildlife-trade-Prince-Charles-warns.html   An interesting article related to the illegal shahtoosh shawl trade.