Who would have thought that something as humble yet essential as salt could inspire the creation of a writing instrument? And yet, SCRIBO saw what others did not. After all, it’s just salt, you might say. What could possibly be so special about it? But this is no ordinary salt. In fact, tradition says that for centuries, the first harvest of this particular salt was always taken to the Vatican to be used on the Pope’s table. In today’s article, let’s take a look at SCRIBO FEEL Sale di Cervia and Sale di Volterra, the latest designs of the Bologna-based manufacturer.
The White Gold – A Story of Patience
The Salt of Cervia, known as “the sweet salt”, is harvested from the Adriatic coast in Emilia-Romagna region, somewhere between Ravenna and Rimini, and has been prized since Roman times for its purity and low bitterness, due to the absence of bitter chlorides. Still produced using traditional methods, Cervia’s salt is sun-dried, unrefined, and manually collected, a labor-intensive process that limits production to just a few thousand tons per year. Historically, it was so valued that the Papal States demanded its exclusive use for food preservation.
In contrast, the Salt of Volterra originates from underground deposits in Tuscany, where the Etruscans once extracted this prized “white gold.” Today, it is still obtained through a delicate brine evaporation technique that preserves its mineral richness and purity. Unlike coarse sea salt, Volterra’s salt forms fine, dense crystals that deliver a sharper, more intense flavor. With centuries of history behind it, it is no wonder that this salt is now considered both a heritage product and a symbol of Tuscan cultural identity.
Both salts reflect their origins’ character and challenge: Cervia’s tied to the rhythm of sun and tide, whereas Volterra’s drawn from deep within the earth. Each crystal, hard-earned and storied, becomes a symbol of time, patience, and place.
The Editions
The FEEL Sale di Cervia model features semi-transparent grey-blue and ochre tones, enriched with platinum-finished details. According to Scribo, the pattern is inspired by the light that dances across the salt flats. On the other hand, the FEEL Sale di Volterra is rooted deep in the earth. Its design, crafted from semi-transparent brick red and ochre resin, reflects the warm, mineral-rich hues of the Tuscan region, complemented by yellow-gold trim.
The entire pen, from the cap and barrel to the knob and section, is crafted from resin, with surfaces that mimic the texture of salt crystals. It’s a subtle tribute to a mineral we often take for granted, yet one that requires patience and effort to produce. The same can be said for crafting a fine writing instrument or for shaping the thoughts that eventually become stories. I truly appreciate the analogy SCRIBO draws between the time it takes to harvest salt and the equally patient act of writing, putting ideas to paper, and bringing creativity to life.
Both editions are available with a wide range of nib options, from flexible 14k gold to 18k gold Stubs, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your writing style and express yourself freely.
Both editions are available with a wide range of nib options, from flexible 14k gold to 18k gold Stubs, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your writing style and express yourself freely.
Each design is limited to just 150 pieces worldwide.
Available at scritturabolognese.com and through authorised retailers.
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