#metallurgy

This sword is more than 2,200 years old. The elaborate hilt was carved from a piece of rock crystal and then embellished with turquoise stones and intricate patterns of inlaid gold.

Above: a close-up of the ornately-decorated hilt

The blade itself was forged from bronze, and it has a greenish-blue patina that was naturally produced over time.

Above: some of the damage and discoloration on the blade

As this article explains:

This bronze sword from the Warring States period stands as a testament to engineering and artistic excellence. Meticulously detailed, the sword features a slender, formidable blade that would have delighted its owner both in battle and aesthetically.

However, the true star of this sword lies in its exquisitely decorated hilt. Adorned with inlays of rock crystal, turquoise, and gold, the hilt showcases the remarkable technical and artistic skills of ancient Chinese artisans. These precious materials not only enhance the sword’s visual appeal but likely communicate the status and affluence of its owner.

The sword’s intricate craftsmanship and use of rare materials suggest it was likely commissioned by a wealthy and influential individual, such as a high-ranking military commander or an aristocratic elite.

Sources & More Info:

History, News, and Archaeology: The Jeweled Sword of Ancient China

Brewminate: Metallurgical Evolution in Ancient China

16th-century plate armor perfectly illustrates when battlefield defense evolved into wearable high art. Crafted for nobility, the incredibly intricate floral and grotesque etchings served as the ultimate status symbol, showcasing the massive wealth and power of monarchies.

Metallurgical Plant, Ukrainian SSR, Donetsk, 1934

started out as a doodle 😭

Engineers Manufacture World-First ‘Super Alloy’

Scientists have revolutionized the way metals are made by using lower and slower heating of alloys to control how atoms self-organize during material manufacturing.

The discovery, published today in Science by Monash University engineers in Australia, essentially rewrites what has been a century-old approach to alloy design.   The study reveals that lower temperatures and a slower heating process can produce an alloy double the strength of steel, three times stronger than aluminium, and around twice as strong as the same alloy produced using conventional methods. Rather than fully melting metals at extremely high temperatures, researchers used a controlled heating process that allowed atoms to organize themselves into highly ordered, interconnected structures.

Most weapons are protected by the aura of the person using them, hence why they're considered extensions of the self.

Does having a +3 sword and shield help jaune keep up with his friends? (His armor is made of the standard low carbon steel)

So... I'm not an expert on metallurgy or things like that, so let me see if I have a firm grasp on the subject you're asking.

First and foremost, S7 Tool Steel is shock-resistant general-purpose air-hardening tool steel. The "shock-resistant" refers to its ability to absorb shock from impact, making it stronger and tougher than other steels. Its ability to resist softening at higher temperatures also means it can be used in hot work that does not exceed 1000dF/538dC. However, it should be noted that it's not as resistant as S5 steel, though it's place as S7 means it is great for general purpose use.

However, Low Carbon Steel, also known as "mild steel", is a type of steel with low carbon content, ranging between 0.05 to 0.3% carbon. This low carbon content makes it more malleable and ductile than most other steels. It's the most common produced steel on Earth and is also less prone to corrosion that other steels.

Based on this information, I think I can see how weapon production would work based on these two metals. Modern day weapons require constant upkeep, capable of acquiring upgrades, and shift around to accommodate different modes of combat. This way, weapons like Magnhild and Crescent Rose would be made of LCS for weapon modification. Older weapons, however, such as those in the Color War, would likely be made of S7 material for sturdier one-and-done tasking. This would make them hardier and require less upkeep, but also limits their ability to change shape beyond sword to different kind of sword.