This is probably the antithesis of critical thinking but ,
While I agree that this blade most likely belonged to a higher status person I also have read , on this forum IIRC (take it for what you will) , that such adornments were often awarded by the sultan for an outstanding act of bravery on the part of one of his minions .
Silly romantic stuff probably but it would seem a particularly appropriate reward and possibly even fits Ruel's fashion criteria .
Always remember , you read it on the internet .
