Sparks as a clue to composition

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The spark from a steel with .15 to.40 of one percent carbon will simply fork.

Steel with at least .45 of one per cent carbon will show a small but distinct secondary burst. This is considered the minimum for hardening into a useful knife.

Carbon over one per cent will give an intense and multiple bursts.

Moderate silicon makes a spark that is short and ends with a sharp white flash.

Nickel sparks have a small, very intense and bright white color.

Molybdenum gives a spark with a distinct, separate head.

Sparks are best judged by looking at the last third of the trail. Alloys with several additives will confuse the heck out of anyone