ShakudÅ
Shakudo (Japanese赤铜, dt " red copper " ) is a traditional Japanese metal alloy that has been proven since the 12th century for ornaments on swords (see also: Tanto, Wakizashi, Katana ) is or decorative objects used.
The alloy is usually made of copper with 2-7 % gold. Rarely, other metals are still added <1% in small amounts. The recipe was kept secret for many centuries, and came only from the 17th century to Europe.
Characteristic of Shakudo is its dark brown to violet-black color, which is only achieved by etching the metal surface in a hot salt solution.
Due to its intense color Shakudo is an alloy frequently used in the Japanese Mokume -Gane - forging.
- Japanese Crafts
- Alloy