Even though it has the design and detail to be in a museum collection, it is very playable because we use the best materials. We have spent the extra time and money to assure that this set is very durable and will last well into the future. They are made from a high impact and scuff resistant plastic that is rigid but not brittle. They are solid, we use marble dust which gives them the weight and temperature of ivory.. The king for example weights 9oz. This chess set is a cut above any thing out there and will make a remarkable addition to any garden, patio, rec-room/game-room.