What is Jorin Moku in Japanese Katana terminology?

Jorin Moku or 如輪杢 in Japanese, refers to a type of pattern on the surface of the ground iron (jigane) of a Japanese sword. It is a variation of the Mokume Hada (burl grain), which resembles the grain of wood, specifically the rings of a tree.

In the case of ""Jorin Moku"", the pattern appears like the scales of a fish. The term ""Jorin"" in Japanese means ""like a wheel"", indicating that the pattern is circular and continuous, similar to the rings of a tree or the scales of a fish.

This pattern is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the swordsmith, and it is one of the distinctive features that set Japanese swords apart. The Jorin Moku, with its unique scale-like pattern, adds a unique aesthetic value to the sword.