Jon, Beautiful pen !!! Very regal looking!! Doc
Since it was brought up..to add to Justin's response.. From the American Art Plastics Site on the safety of celluloid:
"The main risk in working with celluloid is fire.
Celluloid will burn vigorously if ignited! Thicker pieces of celluloid must be cut with a wet saw; a slow, cautious rate of feed and the use of liquid coolant are strongly recommended for any power sawing involving celluloid. Grinding and power sanding should also be done with caution, taking all necessary measures to insure that the material is not overheated. Drilling should be done at slow speeds, an inch or less at a time, backing the drill bit out regularly to allow both drill and workpiece to cool. Paraffin is a useful lubricant and coolant for drilling. Celluloid can be turned on a wood lathe, but take care to keep your tools sharp and your touch light. The risk of overheating a workpiece is generally significantly greater on a wood lathe than on a metal lathe. Every workshop should have a fire extinguisher handy, and this is particularly important in any shop where celluloid is worked."