How is the gold blade finish applied and what steel is underneath?
Updated Feb 2026
The gold blade finish on katana in this collection is a surface treatment applied after the blade has been forged, heat-treated, and ground to final geometry. The finish is a controlled process that produces a stable gold or golden-yellow coloration on the steel surface. The underlying steel - 1045 carbon steel or manganese steel depending on the specific model - retains all of its structural properties: the gold finish is purely a surface treatment and does not affect the blade's hardness, toughness, or full-tang construction. Under normal indoor display conditions, the gold finish maintains its color and appearance without requiring special treatment. Handling the blade directly with bare hands transfers oils that can eventually affect the finish's uniformity over extended periods; handling with soft gloves or a clean cloth and wiping the blade after examination is the appropriate care practice. Avoid water contact and abrasive cleaning materials. The finish is more durable than paint but should be treated with the same consideration given to any precision surface finish.