As always the beauty is in the wood. This quality writing instrument uses a unique piece of Spalted Maple. The difference between the light and dark wood surrounded by spalt lines is awesome. This pen is 24K plated and comes with a lifetime warranty on the plating. It uses a twist mechanism to advance the point. This pen takes a Cross style of refill and comes with a black one included. This hand turned pen was finished and polished to a high gloss.