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Old 5th August 2009, 01:41 AM   #20
Jim McDougall
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Route 66
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Atlantia
Well, its not very scientific, but I tend to go on the 'look' and the colour of the oxidisation/patina.
A good silver will oxidise almost black, and seeing as the common mix seems to often be high in copper, the oxidisation will have a more brown colour. Less black less silver as a rule.
But like I say, not exactly scientific


Gene, thats a lot more scientific than my good ole magnet method!

Thanks so much Watson!! David,
The pommel has me puzzled as well, but seems very familiar, and cant figure from where I have seen this shape. It seems I have seen such pommels of either striated or gadrooned flattened oval shape possibly on swords hilted in Yemen in about the turn of the century, if I recall some with Amharic inscribed trade blades. These Ethiopian blades I understand found thier way to Arabia along with the rhino horn hilts, much in demand there, and transported there where they were dismantled.

All best regards,
Jim
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