Victorian 18kt gold and blood red garnet letter opener; featuring 6 bezel set blood red cabochon cut garnets. supported in a repose foliate motif decorated hand and guard. handle with acanthus motif hand engraved, bright cut scabbard. The blade is double sided hand honed Damascus steel.
Our Victorian letter opener made of Damascus steel: it’s like having a tiny medieval sword for your modern-day envelopes! This beauty doesn’t just slice through bills and love letters; it practically whispers, “You’ve got mail… the old-fashioned, super classy way!” So if you’ve ever wanted to feel like a Victorian-era gentle person while opening your bills, this little gem is your new desk buddy. Enjoy a piece of history—with a wink!
PS. Don’t return to work on Bart with this or try flying with it… ;>)
Circa: 1880’s Victorian
Hand made
Dimensions:
Handle to hilt; 2 3/4″
Across handle: 2n 1/8″
Damascus steel blade: 2 7/8″ (5.5 dwt. alone)
Scabbard alone: 3 1/4″ long
6 cabochon cut blood red garnets:
Total estimated weight: 18.00 ct apx.
Hues: purplish red
Condition: Fine with a minor dent on scabbard, and dents on guard (see close up images). Bare in mind this is chasing 150 years old
Gross weight: 36.3 dwt.
What is Damascus Steel?
Damascus steel is one of the most storied and admired materials in the history of metalworking. Distinguished by its flowing, water-like surface patterns, it was created through the ancient practice of repeatedly folding and forging layers of steel. The result was not only visually striking, but also exceptionally strong and resilient.
Originating more than a thousand years ago, Damascus steel became legendary during the Middle Ages, especially in the Middle East, where it was prized for blades that combined beauty with extraordinary performance. To hold a piece made from Damascus steel is to connect with a tradition of craftsmanship that has inspired awe for centuries.