Damascus blade and rust

[canoecanoe]

Watch Forged in Fire.

 

[DADI03]

As I understand it when the metal is in the forge the exterior is exposed to and absorbs carbon on its outer surface, as it is folded this creats stratification of layers of high and lower carbon steel. When these are ground flat then exposed to acid, the acid etches the high carbon steel differently than the low carbon, leaving the pattern

Interesting. I've seen it done on TV just never realized what all went into making it pop like that

 

[jeepnuts]

The layers come from the forging technique, the acid etching creates more visual contrast between the layers.

Think of it like staining wood, the stain helps bring out the character

 

[Mister Heavyhand]

Throw the knife out. Tell your woman it's no big deal. SHE will never forget!

 

[jeepnuts]

If she’s still your fiancé after then you must really love her. But, you still have time to run before there’s paperwork involved

 

[Billy02]

You can dip it in vinegar and sweet baking soda and leave it for 24 to 48 hours, and then just use a foam and wash it, after that leave it oiled for sometime so the rust does not gets back. it will be perfect.