The silver metalwork on this Tibetan knife is the entire reason to own it. Every surface of the sheath and handle is covered in hand-detailed relief work - dragon figures with individually sculpted heads and scaled bodies, floral scrollwork filling every open space, and geometric border patterns framing the composition. Inlaid across the sheath are turquoise and red gemstone cabochons, the signature color palette of traditional Tibetan decorative metalwork where blue-green and red carry centuries of cultural significance tied to prosperity, protection, and spiritual connection.
At 17.7 inches and 2.0 lbs, this is a substantial display piece. The silver sheath extends the full length and matches the handle in both material tone and decorative density - dragon motifs, floral patterns, and gemstone settings continue seamlessly from the handle through to the sheath tip. The result is a unified art object where the metalwork and gemstone inlay are the primary focus.
The blade is spring steel, chosen for its resilience and flexibility. Spring steel has been used in traditional Himalayan metalwork for centuries because it holds up well in the harsh mountain climate without becoming brittle. The material choice reflects the historical roots of Tibetan knife-making traditions that date back to at least the 19th century, when these pieces served as both practical tools and status symbols for Tibetan travelers and merchants.
Turquoise holds deep significance in Tibetan culture. Known internationally as the December birthstone, turquoise in Tibetan tradition represents warmth, vitality, and good fortune. The stone's characteristic blue-green color is considered auspicious, and its presence on personal items has been a Tibetan decorative convention for generations. The turquoise cabochons on this piece are set directly into the silver metalwork using traditional bezel settings.
The craftsmanship quality positions this closer to decorative jewelry than to standard knife accessories. The three-dimensional dragon heads, the depth of the scrollwork relief, and the precision of the gemstone settings all indicate hand-finishing at a level typically associated with Himalayan silver artisan work. For collectors of Central Asian material culture, Tibetan art, or gemstone-inlaid metalwork, this is a display centerpiece that represents a craft tradition distinct from Japanese and Chinese sword-making.
Includes silver dragon-relief sheath. Stand not included. Free US shipping with 30-day money-back guarantee.
Specification
| Item Number | TK-ZD-G10612 |
| Primary Color | Multi-colored |
| Primary Material | 1095 Carbon Steel |
Item Dimensions & Packaging
| Dimensions | 17.7 * 1.7 Inches |
| Weight | 2.0 Pounds |
| Packing Size | 19 x 3 x 3 Inches |
| Shipping Weight | 3.0 Pounds |