Full Tang Katana with Folded Melaleuca Steel Blade - Gold Snake Tsuba, Black Saya

The blade on this katana is forged from folded melaleuca steel, a layered construction that produces the signature flowing wave patterns visible along the full length of the chrome-toned surface. Each fold in the steel creates a slightly different grain, meaning no two blades carry identical patterning. The result is a hand-finished edge with strong visual character - dark flow lines alternating with polished ridges that shift under light. At 41 inches overall and 3 lbs, the proportions suit both wall mounting and close examination as part of a collection. Collectors interested in similar forging methods can explore the broader Folded Steel Sword range for additional reference pieces.

The tsuka is wrapped in genuine black samegawa ray skin as the underlayer, then bound tightly with black cord in a traditional diamond-pattern braid. The wrap sits flush and consistent from collar to pommel, with small silver menuki accents anchored beneath the cord at symmetrical positions along the grip. The kashira cap finishes the handle in matching black, keeping the entire tsuka assembly in a clean monochromatic tone.

The tsuba is the standout accent piece of this build. Cast in gold-tone brass, it takes the form of a round guard with openwork negative space and a fully sculpted snake wrapping its body around the rim. The snake's coils, scales, and head are rendered with clear definition - this is not a stamped or flat engraved design but a dimensional relief that reads well from multiple angles. A matching gold fuchi collar connects the guard to the handle, maintaining the warm metallic accent against the all-black surrounding components.

The saya is shaped from hardwood and finished in a matte black lacquer that gives it a consistent, even surface free of grain texture. The fit along the blade is snug, and the kurikata is positioned correctly for traditional carry orientation. A black sageo cord is knotted through the kurikata in a compact multi-loop configuration. The overall color story of the saya - black lacquer body, black sageo, minimal hardware - keeps the visual weight understated and lets the gold tsuba read as the focal point when the sword is sheathed. Those building a display collection around Folded Katana Blade pieces will find this saya finish pairs well across multiple display orientations.

Specifications: overall length 41 inches, blade width 1.259 inches, blade thickness 0.275 inches, weight 3 lbs. Ships in a 43 x 4 x 4 inch package at 4 lbs. Sword stand not included.