From the earliest of times, people have held a special affinity for figurines that take on the human form. These come in a myriad of styles from the simple toys loved by children to the display only manikins treasured by collectors. Of all the various types available, the BJD doll is definitely one of the more unique genres.

There are a number of features that actually make these dolls stand out from all the others on the market. The most obvious of these is the one for which they are named, their ball and socket joints. These allow the figure to be fully articulated and to be placed in more realistic human positions and poses for the most accurate postures in display situations.

Articulation points are generally placed in key positions such as the neck, ankles, hips, knees, shoulders, wrists, elbows and even the waist on certain models. The placement of these joints allows for flowing movement and easy pose ability when being displayed. Everything is controlled and held in place by durable elastic cording strung throughout the body, connecting the pieces.

Another thing that makes them so desired is their unique look. Produced primarily in South Korea, Japan and China, this type of figurine has been described as an homage to realistic movement with a heavy anime' influence in the facial features. They are stunningly beautiful and generally intended to be owned by adult collectors instead of used as playthings for small children.

A small percentage of these products are made in lightweight vinyl or thin plastics for cost effectiveness, though the majority are cast in a special resin that is a bit harder, more durable and quite dense. Starting in the vicinity of about $100, these items are definite treasures as they can end up costing more than $1200. On the average, a mid range figurine will run between $600 and $700.

Another reason a lot of die-hard collectors love this style is that they are fully customizable. Just about every part of these figurines is capable of being personally selected or altered by the individual. Appendages, heads, torsos, breastplates, eyes, hair, clothing and accessories can all be purchased separately which allows the bearer to not only build their perfect design, but to change a single feature if desired.

They also come in many different sizes. The smallest available options stand about 4" high, have limited facial definition and are commonly called Pocket Fairies because of how adorable they are. The larger manikins, rising to an impressive height of 27.5", allow for a lot more detailing to be done, particularly in the area of the face.

Perhaps the thing that makes these products truly unique and unlike most other items in the field, is their ability to represent the many phases of human life, from a toddling child to an aged adult. While some are made gender neutral, particularly those emulating young children, they are usually created to be anatomically correct and accurately age specific. Several styles of breastplates are available in order to allow the collector to achieve the most realistic results.