Wavy, chevron or zigzag grain pattern, characteristic of Gassan school.

Straight, bar-like utsuri parallel to the blade.

Ground reflection; subtle light reflection pattern visible in the steel's surface grain.

Gleaming dark lines in the ji (surface) caused by nie activity along concentrations of carbon/steel from folding.

Crepe-like texture, fine and tightly packed grain with a slightly rough appearance.

Clove-shaped reflection; irregular bright areas in the steel resembling clove flower patterns.

Day-night ground finish; a contrasting surface treatment showing different textures or colors.

Combined utsuri; a blade showing more than one type of utsuri reflection, typically bo-utsuri and midare-utsuri appearing together. Characteristic of Aoe school work.

Grain matching; the harmonious blending of different steel textures in forged construction.

Raised grain pattern where the steel structure becomes prominently visible on the blade surface.

Raised or prominent grain pattern in the steel surface, showing distinct forge construction lines.

Tendency for grain to stand out; steel showing pronounced hada visibility.