Abstract: A hand-held writing instrument is provided having a tubular barrel housing a writing mechanism and a writing tip, the barrel having externally affixed thereto, and extending circumferentially therearound, a three-dimensional metal casting. Pens, pencils and matched pen and pencil sets are provided. The writing instrument barrel is preferably made of wood or plastic, and the metal casting is preferably pewter. Also provided is a process for making the writing instruments of the invention.