magic_glitter
Oh I don't know for sure, but I'd suspect they are. I've read so much about how much it actually costs to make things. Like a CD only costs a dollar to make, but $20 to buy. it's all about profit. I had a friend from Hong Kong when I was younger, and she always used to go back to Hong Kong during the summer break. She'd come back with all these beautiful clothes and jewelery and decorative items... things that she got dirt cheap but cost a fortune over here.
I don't know if this will help, but here's some American Dolls on ebay:
http://dolls.listings.ebay.com/By-Brand-Company-Character_American-Girl_W0QQf...
Some are reasonably priced, and not many bids.