Armory Replicas Handmade Leather Cover Diary Journal Book classic and elegant appearance Threaded Bookmark for easy page navigation Ideal for recording memoirs, ideas, and inspiration

I really LIKE this little journal, but had to give it 4 stars--because it doesn't quite match the online photos and description provided. Instead of a rich, dark brown (as pictured), it's more of a cocoa-brown color. Also, the pics show 2 different journals; one cover is plain, the other has 4 shiny metallic golden floral inlays (on the corners), which can be confusing to the buyer. I didn't get one with any gold decorations (I prefer the plain cover, anyway)...guessing it was possibly another item once available, that has since sold-out. The product I received took a while to arrive, but was packaged nicely (and handmade in India). In the description, it (inaccurately) states the length of the journal as "5.25 inches", but NO width is listed. I ordered, not knowing what size it would actually be. It appeared much smaller than I'd expected (the package fit inside my PO box), and when I measured the book, it was exactly 4"x5". So, if you're looking for a larger genuine leather journal, try one of the others from this seller--they have several beautiful styles, in many sizes. (The price was good for the size, but I was just a bit disappointed.) Luckily, being so small makes it PERFECT to carry in your pocket, belt-bag, purse, or even for traveling! It's a very CUTE little journal, and the leather smells nice. Has a soft, slightly broken-in feel to the medium/thick cowhide cover, and there are actually MORE pages than mentioned in the description (it has 5 signatures, with 24 sheets each--equalling 120 sheets, 240 pages!). The craftsmanship of this item was of somewhat lower quality, than other handmade leather journals I've recently purchased (which were also made in India)...the brown coloring had some application swirl-marks, and the leather thong-strap (to hold the book closed) was an inch or two shorter than it should've been. A few of the signatures were bound SO tightly, that the holes where the cording goes through, tore a bit. (None of these issues is a BIG deal or anything, especially since I got this journal on sale.) The paper is a good thickness for different types of pencils, pens, inks or paints, and would also be great to use for junk-journaling (it's made with strong, natural fibers). This leather journal makes a wonderful gift, for both girls and guys (it has an appealing look and feel, for everyone). Over time, the leather cover will only become softer and more attractive/pliable, after handling/using. Another plus--because it has a plain cover, it can be decorated and personalized with leather tools/dyes, to make it even MORE special and unique!!