That is a really good point and something I struggle with. Sadly, in most cases the razor was seen as a purely utilitarian object and not something that should possess lasting beauty. As such, the scales on most of them were not really made to last. Sometimes I go to extraordinary lenths to restore the original scales - especially if there is something interesting about them or if they are a natural material like bone or horn. But I have a very hard time with these if they are splintered or chipped or broken. I would welcome anyone out there who could give me greater insight as to how I might restore the scales of these things that I now consider to be "lost causes." Thanks again for your input!.