Thread: Pendray Wootz blade, natural gems, 18K gold

All done!

This was a project that started as an idea that I pitched to Pete, and then we worked out the details together.
Red, white and blue are of course the colors of the American flag. The red are rubies, the white are gem quality diamonds, and the blue are sapphires. All are natural stones, set in 18K gold settings.

I didn't chisel in my mark like I usually do. Instead, there is a heavy solid gold medallion in the tail, with my mark chiseled in. The medallion and the gems in gold were all created by Belgian jeweler Lies Vancauwenberghe.

The bone is stabilized fossil walrus rib. It was cast in resin to fill up the spongy marrow. The bone was then cut lengthwise to make the scales.

Working with Pendray wootz is always a slightly unnerving experience, because it is literally irreplaceable. There are only a couple of pieces left, and everything needs to be perfect for the pattern to show up: forging, thermal cycling, heat treatment and etching. Each of these has a number of things that can go wrong. Thankfully, I managed not to do anything bad so the pattern came out really nice.

Oh boy...Oh boy...Oh boy!!!

Been looking forward to shaving with Pendray Wootz for a long time.

I can already tell that this razor is going to far exceed my expectations.

I has been a great collaboration of ideas and an awesome project to have been involved in.

Of course, Bruno's craftsmanship is the star of the show once again.

I can't thank you enough my friend!!!

Pete <:-}

What a nice piece of workmanship!
You deserve it, Pete.

Will I be able to hold that in my hands at Dave's?

Originally Posted by 32t

Will I be able to hold that in my hands at Dave's?

Should be here in plenty of time to bring to Dave's....depending on how many "test shaves" Bruno has.

Pete <:-}

Wonderful blade !

I love how you managed to include the gems.

Bravo !

Interesting how it is beautiful but masculine. Or maybe better put it's beauty is not immasculine. Nicely done. The wootz pattern is excellently represented. That will make a fabulous heirloom piece. My compliments. Pete, you are a lucky man.

Off the chain! Enjoy, Pete!

Having watched a video a while ago about Mr. Pendray. This checks off all the boxes for a "dream" razor.
Hope it lives up to your expectations. That is an amazing piece of steel made by an inspiring man. If any of you haven't watched the documentary about
him. I suggest that you try to make time. It was very interesting.
Ken.

This one is really a masterpiece to be enjoyed for a lifetime and passed on for generations. The pattern of the wootz is beautiful, and I'm intrigued by the walrus rib scales. I've never seen walrus bone used for scales, and these are stunning and complement the beautiful blade. Well done, Bruno, and congratulations Pete.