A glass orb can be used for many graphics, interfaces, and website layouts. It is also very easy to make. Here is the way I make my glass orbs in Paint Shop Pro 9.

Next is probably the hardest part but really its easy once you get used to the "Pen Tool". Select the "Pen Tool. Invert the "Fading-White" gradient. Near the bottom draw a curved line that matches the curve of the orb.