Chinese lacquer is a treasure of nature; a noble juice that produces the world's most prestigious lacquers and decorates the most beautiful objects with its uniquely brilliant sheen. Although it has been used in China for several thousand years, very few western manufacturers have the special expertise required to prepare and apply it. The techniques were developed by the great oriental masters and Caran d'Ache is one of the rare companies to share their secrets. The Chinablack line carefully respects the ancient Chinese tradition and each rhodium-coated silver-plated or gold plated writing instrument is a highly refined objet d'art.