When it gets here, I will let you know for sure if it is bone. I will be really surprised if it is! I think your reject theory might be acurate- here is another quote from the seller-
"On the handle, near the blade guard is a hairline imperfection in the bone . This does not appear to be a crack and is not very noticable. It does not affect the integrity of the handle !!!!"
I was the only bidder on ebay- I think I stole it for $42 shipped wink