Thanks, Longfellow,
I know that state of mind, believe me!
Many everyday-use items of ironwork such as door hinges or anvils often also show such punched star- or flower-like designs.
For genuine early-16th c. North Italian cinquedeae, their characteristically fluted blades and marks, please see
http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showth...ght=cinquedeae
Best,
m