Ive always loved the industrial look of wood or metal orbs.
We have one out on the coffee table thats made of metal, but its not a bookend.
Wooden embroidery hoops on the other hand are rather inexpensive.

These embroidery hoop orbs are quite easy to make.
This looks really cool on a bookshelf for a great bookend!
Its a great look for modern decor and minimalists, although it would look awesome in any decor.
I know that I would be really excited about receiving a gift like this one!