Damascus steel combines steels of different properties and produces blades with extraordinary toughness and edge-holding ability. Known as the Steel of the Ancients, Damascus knives and swords have lived in legend since the creation of Damascus steel nearly 2,000 years ago. The ancient city of Damascus was one of the centers of production of this steel. That, combined with the fact that the steel resembled the damask cloth which was being produced in the city of Damascus- both having a "water-marked" pattern - gave this steel its name. Viewed under a microscope, the cutting edge of a Damascus blade displays tiny saw-tooth carbides which are formed by forging in a coal fire.