Wow! I had forgotten about this beautiful ribbon-hilt! Now that would be the jewel in anyone's collection! I just got done reading Peterson's old tome on weapons in Pre-Colonial America, so it is certainly possible that it could have been crafted here, or at least come over the pond to here! Due to its early dating and style, I would assume it came from the homeland until proven otherwise, though.
A belated Happy New Year to you gents, especially you, Jim! Indeed, William Thack aka Blackbeard should have never sassed a Highlander!!