Laminated Steel differs from Damascus in that:
1. Laminated Steel has a higher steel to iron ratio, with higher quality steel.
2. Laminated Steel starts with the iron and steel mixed together (puddled) in a semi-molten state (the bloom) which is then hammered or rolled into rods. Damascus starts with individual strips of iron and steel.
3. Laminated Steel rods are twisted less than Damascus.
4. Laminated Steel rods may be subjected to additional rolling or hammering.
In the 1907 edition of The Gun, W.W. Greener stated that “Old-fashioned laminated steel” was 75% steel & “Modern laminated Steel” 60% steel.
Long version
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1__gn3XKjLX_4V0LguzoVGBwJRFS6SxsWGzUwHq93neo/edit
I've never read that the wrought iron in laminated steel was any different than that used in crolle damascus. Swedish Iron and Russian CCND from Demidoff's Works at Nisch-netagilsk were considered of higher quality
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1V-qkkHrs7yJakMkakxkiMx8FzJjGXUg0EDm8-_AQPiA/edit
The steel used in Twist & Crolle was mostly very low carbon AISI 1002 - 1005.
It is likely the laminated steel was higher in carbon. Higher carbon steel, and higher concentrations of manganese, stain a deeper black.
The pattern coloring and contrast was dependent on the source of the coal, the source of the iron (and alloys present in the steel), and whether charcoal, coke, or coal was used by the smelter. And of course the chemicals then used for blacking. And the water used in the process, at least I've been told that by some refinishers.
It's complicated
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