Hi Steven ,
I'm not the best person to answer this as I'm new to collecting these swords ( I own less than 1/2 dozen ) but from my reading it seems that inlaying ( or actually overlaying / koftgari ) is a technique used exclusively by the Bama ( ethnic Burman ) and not by anyone else even in Myanmar itself . Other cultures also heavily decorate their swords the use of silver and ivory in better quality swords is fairly common place for high end dha . Pre British colonisation in Burma sumptuary laws prevented anyone other than nobles to decorate their swords with silver or horn and only the king was allowed gold or gems.
Many of these swords were intended as ceremonial gifts ( and are not as old as made out ) but are nevertheless well made and can be used for training purposes as they are well built and well balanced . I can see the desire to own something that is beautiful as well as it being a "proper" sword that can be used however I couldn't see a situation where I personally would want to use an antique for martial arts training / sparring or even in self "defense".
In the 18th century at least , the Bama felt that swordsmanship was an essential and noble art and Alaunghpaya ( founder of Third Burmese Empire ) despised anyone as cowardly if they would rather shoot someone than spar with the sword . ( folklore rather than any quotable evidence
). Nevertheless dha were a regular feature in the first Anglo-BUrmese War 1824 - 1826 as witnessed by British and Indian troops .
There are however "tourist" swords on the market so beware ( but usually the price reflects this ) . I own a dha from the 19th century that clearly has been used ( alot ) judging from the battle wounds . It is however inordinately beautiful ( the overlay is subtle ) .
I'll bump up that thread if you like ( or look at thread My First Dha )
Regards