ChiaoGoo Bamboo Needles are made from Chinese Moso Bamboo which is the largest and strongest bamboo of over 1,000 different species; Dark patina hands go through an additional heat process to achieve the darkest color (no dyes or paints are used to achieve this richer color). The points are made by hand by highly skilled artisans. Size is permanently laser etched into each item for convenience and easy storage. ChiaoGoo products are primarily manufactured in Hangzhou, China, distributed from Troy, MI (United States) and adhere to the latest environmentally friendly manufacturing processes; most products are 100% recyclable.