This really is a fascinating topic, magnetism in the steel of edged weapons blades, and discussed some time ago in another fascinating thread initiated by Jens.
While I cannot add much to the metallurgical aspects, I do know that magnetite is a mineral often found in the iron forged into the steel used in blades. This mineral is of course allied with the mysterious magnetic lodestone, which is used in so many ways.
What puzzles me is why someone would want a blade magnetized, and I cannot think of any practical purpose, leading me as always, to wondering about superstitious or magical associations. It does seem like there is the possibility of inadvertant magnetization, but for the sake of discussion, perhaps a blade intended to be imbued with magical or potent powers, this property would be somewhat convincing.
The magnetic lodestone was included in folklore from early times, and the Spanish 'Gitanos' believed these magnetic/magical stones would keep them from drowning (if at sea) and that this mineral would make one impervious to lead or steel, obviously an attractive property in a weapon.
While this obviously derives from the Spanish gypsies, perhaps similar folk religion concepts were present throughout the widespread diffusion of these colorful people, even into Ottoman regions.
Clearly speculation intended only as food for thought on why a blade would be deliberately magnetized, and not suggesting this weapon has anything to do with Gypsies, Spaniards or anything other than an Ottoman weapon.
The interesting pattern in the deep channelling in the blade reminds me of these patterns on blades of early Italian sabres, and similar channeling I believe is present in lesser degree on Qamas from the Ottoman sphere.
It seems there have been a number of weapons described with magnetic properties in the blades, from India and I believe kerises, and I wonder if there is more to this.
All best regards,
Jim
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