Beyond Sword
Ceremonial Swords the History, the Honor
By: Steve Borth
When Rulers and Royalty were in power there was really only one symbol that could show their authority and power, the Ceremonial sword. This sword was their life's blood, their kingdom portrayed. This sword was their status, their power and the more lavishly it was decorated and adorned with jewels, the more visibly respected the sword became. Status was acquired from the Ceremonial sword.
Ever since time was inhabited by humans, weapons have been crafted. The sword first made it's appearance around 1500 BC. Ceremonial swords have a important roll in history. Hundreds of cultures in every corner of the world have made this sword part, and in some cases, most of their history‘s background. The British Royalty for example displays a large array of Ceremonial swords. The Ceremonial sword was rarely used in battle. More often then not it was crafted from precious metals, adorned with symbols and materials of the owners wealth and power. These swords where too delicate to use on the battle field, they were not made for such an event. They were symbols of strength, their power, their authority. Emperors, Kings, Queens or Knights all owned Ceremonial swords, it was their birth rite. Today many of these swords are available as a remembrance of their existence. A remembrance of the past. Honor is what makes Ceremonial swords give a person the inner feeling of security and confidence.
Ceremonial Sword Maintenance
In addition to Emperors, Kings, Queens or Knights of the past. High ranking officers of our nation's military and officials in law enforcement agencies are issued a ceremonial sword with their dress uniform. The US Marines are big users of the ceremonial sword. It is important to maintain these swords to ensure that premium presentation quality will exist for years to come. Therefore, this sword is intended for presentation purposes. It is important to realize that even though they have been forged, tempered and designed for durability. The blade probably will not withstand heavy blows on any particular object, hard surface or blade to blade impacts. They are designed for display, presentational or ceremonial use. As with all swords, caution and respect should be taken when handling the sword. Most of them will arrive in a razor sharp condition and yes they can be dangerous. So don't be too flamboyant and remember to treat your sword with respect. The USA has no laws or restrictions covering the use of swords but some countries do.
Below are some ways to help ensure the preservation of your new ceremonial sword.
The stainless steel or low to high carbon blade you choose is your biggest concern. Try to avoid handling the blade as much as possible. Fingerprints are the culprit. The blade and other metal elements of the sword can be discolored and effected by fingerprint impressions that are difficult to remove if left on for extended periods of time. They will leave an imprint on the blade that will be visible. Your fingerprints contain certain bodily acids and oils that when pressed upon the steel surface it will leave an imprint. If this occurs, try erasing them with furniture polish. The pre-moistened Pledge wipes are convenient and would be your best bet. In areas of high humidity, pollution, or close to the sea, you may need to clean your sword at least monthly. Do not ever use metal polishes on any gold-colored component of your sword unless you have thoroughly investigated it to be safe. And absolutely never use steel wool on gold-colored parts or the blade of your sword. Unless you want scratches on it. Gold or gold plating is soft and it will scratch.
After you've cleaned the prints off of your blade wipe down the surface with a bit of olive oil with a clean dry cloth. This will add a nice sheen to the blade and will prevent future fingerprints from adhering to the surface. It will also protect the blade from rust, corrosion and salts that are in the atmosphere while the sword is in the scabbard or sheath. I have learned that all metal, even stainless steel has traces of carbon in it. The amount of carbon in stainless steel is a much smaller amount than in a carbon tempered blade, but it will still develop rust throughout time. The previous stainless steel swords I have owned did develop rust. At the time I did not realize why my stainless steel blades were rusting or how to prevent it from happening. Now I have more insight and have accumulated research on how to take better precautions and better care of my swords then in the past. Jeweler cloths can also be used for serious discolorations. Wipe the sword down after each use to ensure it is clean before storing it. Transporting your ceremonial sword is best done with the sword wrapped in plastic such as saran wrap to protect it from moisture.
Leather scabbards and sheaths also need to be cared for. Most leather preservers will cause leather discoloration. So do a little research on what type of leather it is and what type of preserver to use. For example, many leather products can be treated with saddle soap, mink oil or Neats-foot oil.
In Conclusion
Taking precautions and some preventive measures will help to ensure that your Ceremonial Swords or any other sword that you may own, withstand the test of time. After all, a sword shows honor and has a personal connection to it's owner. Treat your sword as if it is part of you.
About the Author
The author started exploring website design on his own time during the end of September 2009. Steve has created and currently owns 4 websites and they all appear to be sharply designed. Steve worked for a civil engineering company as an autocadd technician / survey technician for 16 years.
Review - Civilization 4: Beyond the Sword
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