The Gemini project is a custom pair of fine liner lock folding knives, made for a great client. They're based on my Gemini style of folding knife, but with a more pointed blade shape. When combined in the custom stand, they are a magnificent pair of investment grade art. I worked with the idea of identical patterns and engraving, but sharply different materials and finishes. The knife in the top of the display is made of O-1 high carbon tungsten-vanadium alloy tool steel, mirror finished, hand-engraved, and hot blued for a jet black finish. The gemstone on the handle is hard, polished crazy lace agate, a beautiful gem with fascinating patterns, bands, crystal inclusions, and colors. The knife in the bottom of the display is made of 440C high chromium stainless steel, mirror polished and hand-engraved, with 304 high nickel-chromium stainless steel bolsters, and a lapis lazuli (lazurite) gemstone handle that has a fantastic blue color interspersed with clouds of gray and bright golden points of pyrite. Both knives have matching, yet unique engravings, and the stars and patters are reminiscent of the constellations in the cosmos. The knives are fully fileworked, along the spacers and along the 6AL4V Titanium liners in microscopic detail. I've anodized the titanium to match the color theme of the knife handles. The thumb openers have been inlaid with the same gemstones as the handle for an elegant touch.

I wanted the stand to display the knives either closed or open, and each position to display a different side of the knife. The stand is artistically carved and hand-finished American Black Walnut hardwood, with Paduk hardwood pins, finely sanded and oil-sealed. Simple yet elegant, the stand is carved from solid black walnut hardwood, and assembled without distracting metal fittings to compliment, not detract from the fine knives. it allows several display options, and is stable and substantial. The pair of Paduk hardwood rods echo the paired theme exhibited throughout the piece. The accompanying descriptive custom nameplate is black lacquered brass set in Black Walnut.

These knives were a pleasure to make, and the owner has a set that will continue to appreciate and be admired over the years.

Thanks, D.A.!