I've turned 2 chess piece handles thus far. The bishop went fast. :-) thanks again btw.

I ended up choosing the bocote handle. Its dark grain and pattern go great with some highly figured bocote scales that are sitting in my shop ready to adorn my new razor. Oh, and for the knot, I'm going with a 22mm Silvertip from Golden Nib.

Thank you all for your comments and compliments.