A pair of Bali (?) keris, 1 of 2

[S.Workman]

Originally Posted by A. G. Maisey

Kai is correct:- this is a laminated blade, and it does have pamor, but this pamor is what we call "pamor sanak".

The word "sanak" means related or relation, so this type of pamor is recognised as being made from related material, not materials that differ. In other words, it is plain iron, the contrast that may appear after it has been stained is frequently caused by weld lines and/or manipulation during forging.

Sometimes a distinct contrast will appear in this type of pamor, and this contrast is caused by the use of high and low phosphorus content irons.

Native irons smelted in Jawa, and possibly also in Bali, seem to have generally been high phosphorus irons, which are quite unsuitable for tool and weapon making, so these high phosphorus irons were combined with expensive imported irons, probably mostly tools from China, in order to extend the quantity of material.

When stained the high phosphorus irons appear to be whitish or greyish in colour, the better quality irons appear darker, so this gives a good contrast. You often see this type of pamor in older Javanese blades.

That is all wonderful information. I am very interested to see what it has to show. Is there any way to tell how dark I should allow it to become?