New Delhi, Feb 24 (IANS) The mystery and symbolism associated with Lord Shiva now find space on a pen. Swiss manufacturer of fine writing instruments, Caran d'Ache, has launched a luxury pen in India with the Hindu god as its theme.

The limited edition pen that costs more than Rs.500,000 was launched in partnership with multi-brand retail store chain William Penn here Wednesday. Only 108 pens were made, of which only 10 remain to be sold.

Each pen has been handcrafted in 800 solid silver pieces with a distinctive finish.

The pen's cap is crowned with an agate, a semi-precious stone chosen by Caran d'Ache craftsmen for its intense blue that brings to mind the colour of Lord Shiva's skin.

The god appears on the body and cap of the writing instrument in several representations of his destructive and regenerative powers.

The third eye of Shiva is engraved close to the nib, which is made of rhodium-coated 18-carat gold. On the body, Shiva Nataraja, the cosmic dancer, appears with the 'damaru' (two-headed pellet drum) using his four arms.

'India is a growing luxury market and we see great potential for our brand in the country,' Caran d'Ache general manager Silvio Laurenti said at the launch.