瓦金 Kawaragane / Tile Metal

What is Kawaragane in Japanese Katana terminology?

This is a metal fitting used to reinforce the small hole, ""Kodzuka Hitsu"" (a groove in the scabbard), provided in the scabbard (Saya) to store the Kodzuka (small utility knife). It is attached to prevent scratches around the Hitsu when the Kodzuka is inserted and removed.