ConCoPens Traditional Vietnamese Lacquer Fountain Pen - Aurora 2

The ConCoPens Traditional Vietnamese Lacquer Fountain Pen - Aurora 2 captures the beauty of the aurora through deep black Vietnamese lacquer and luminous mother-of-pearl inlay. Dense vertical fragments of iridescent shell gather around the cap and barrel like curtains of light rising from a dark horizon. As the pen moves, the shell flashes with green, blue, violet, silver, and gold tones, creating a shifting display that feels alive under changing light.

Compared with the more restrained Aurora design, Aurora 2 offers a bolder and more concentrated interpretation of the northern lights. The mother-of-pearl appears almost suspended beneath the lacquer surface, giving the pen a sense of depth that cannot be achieved through printed decoration or ordinary resin.

Craftsmanship & Design

Aurora 2 is handcrafted using traditional Vietnamese lacquer techniques over a natural wood core. Multiple layers of natural lacquer are applied, cured, and polished by hand, gradually building the rich depth and gloss that define true lacquer work.

The mother-of-pearl inlay is individually cut and embedded into the lacquer surface before additional layers are applied and polished. This process creates the impression that the shell is floating within the lacquer rather than resting on top of it. The vertical arrangement of shell fragments gives Aurora 2 its dramatic rhythm, evoking luminous bands of aurora light emerging from the darkness.

The deep black lacquer provides contrast for the shell's natural iridescence, while the gold-tone trim adds warmth and balance. Because each shell fragment varies naturally in color and reflectivity, every Aurora 2 has its own individual character.

Vietnamese Lacquer vs. Japanese Urushi

One of the most common questions surrounding ConCoPens is how Vietnamese lacquer compares to Japanese Urushi. Both are considered true Asian lacquers derived from natural tree sap and have been used for centuries to create decorative objects of exceptional beauty and durability.

Japanese Urushi is produced from the sap of the lacquer tree, Toxicodendron vernicifluum, and contains a natural compound called urushiol. Vietnamese lacquer originates from the sap of the Vietnamese lacquer tree, Toxicodendron succedaneum, and is primarily composed of a related compound known as laccol. Although chemically distinct, both lacquers undergo a similarly demanding process of repeated application, controlled curing, and hand polishing to achieve their remarkable depth and luster.

Because the trees belong to the same botanical family, individuals with known sensitivities to urushi should understand that Vietnamese lacquer cannot be considered inherently hypoallergenic. However, once fully cured, both lacquers become extraordinarily durable finishes prized for their resistance and longevity.

Vietnamese lacquer is not a simplified version of Japanese Urushi, nor is it an imitation of it. Rather, it represents its own rich artistic tradition with a particular emphasis on layered color, luminous depth, and decorative techniques such as shell inlay. The affordability of many Vietnamese lacquer pens generally reflects differences in workshop scale, labor economics, and market positioning rather than any reduction in craftsmanship or authenticity.

Writing Experience

Aurora 2 is designed to be enjoyed as both an artisan object and a reliable everyday writer. The natural wood construction keeps the pen comfortable in hand, while the polished lacquer surface provides a smooth, warm tactile quality that feels distinct from acrylic or metal-bodied pens.

The pen is fitted with a German-made gold-plated JoWo #6 stainless steel nib, a widely respected nib platform known for consistency, smoothness, and reliability. Available in Fine and Medium widths, the JoWo #6 nib delivers controlled ink flow and dependable performance for journaling, correspondence, and daily writing. Filling is handled by the included Schmidt piston converter, allowing the use of bottled fountain pen inks with straightforward maintenance.

Brand Heritage

ConCoPens was founded to introduce traditional Vietnamese lacquer artistry to modern fountain pen enthusiasts. By adapting techniques associated with lacquer paintings, decorative objects, and heirloom craftwork, the brand creates writing instruments that preserve Vietnam's artistic heritage while remaining practical tools for daily use.

Aurora 2 reflects this philosophy with particular clarity. Its luminous shell inlay, layered natural lacquer, and dependable German-made writing system create a compelling bridge between regional craftsmanship and contemporary fountain pen design.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: ConCoPens
• Collection: Traditional Vietnamese Lacquer
• Model: Aurora 2
• Body Material: Hand-applied Vietnamese natural lacquer with mother-of-pearl shell inlay over a natural wood core
• Trim: Gold-tone
• Nib Material: Gold-Plated JoWo #6 Stainless Steel Nib
• Available Nib Sizes: Fine or Medium
• Filling System: Cartridge/Converter
• Converter Included: Schmidt Piston Converter
• Cap Type: Threaded Cap
• Country of Origin: Vietnam