Gold-metal plated. Originating in Syria and exported to Spain during the Moorish conquest in the early 700s AD, damascene is an artform that has been around for centuries Damascene is a surface decoration process that involves the inlaying of gold wire or silver into an undercut groove in the surface of bronze, iron or steel. The sumptuousness of the decoration is due to the contrast between the black color of the steel and the sparkling shine of the precious metals. Made in Toledo, Spain. Finished with post backing. Measures 1 x .75 in.