The picture of this journal really makes it look kind of unattractive and I debated quite a bit before ordering it. But I am so glad I did! It's just a beautiful journal, the words are not printed on the leather cover, they are embossed into it...this is a very high quality journal at an exceptional price. I'm ordering more of these. They do have gilt edges and a nice ribbon to keep your place. The pages are a baby yellow, very creamy color...not white or beige as you might think, and it is college ruled which is my personal preference. This is perfect for a scripture journal which is why I purchased it. : ) Lovely.