Steve,
I know I'm not telling YOU anything new, but for the sake of others, when people say "OH, Plastic!" I merely respond, yes, some of the best pens in the world are made of resins. Particularly good if you USE your pen and it is subjected to hot, cold and humidity extremes. It is EXTREMELY UNLIKELY to crack. However, if you are primarily a collector, certainly our distinguished "natural" products are more unique as no two are exactly alike. Although these materials DO require more care and prefer controlled conditions.
Interesting comment about alt. ivory-I have not made a lot of it,so I don't know how it sells. But the emperors I have seen made from it impress ME. Thanks for the feedback.[
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