This is the Way: Tracing the Path between Damascus Steel and Beskar

Since the very first scene in the first episode of the Disney Star Wars space-western series, The Mandatorian, the rarity and importance of the metal armor cladding our protagonist, Din Djarin (aka "Mando") is apparent. In this scene, a trawler asks Mando, "Is that real beskar steel?" The dual cultural and utilitarian nature of beskar provide a consistent thread as the stories around Mando progress, with the material serving many purposes during key plot points. From securing the sacred valuable ingots pillaged by the Empire, to being crafted into blaster- and lightsaber-resistant pure armor by skilled artisans, to a spherical shifter knob fidget toy, the value and implementation of beskar are at the forefront of The Mandalorian's story. Here, the history of Beskar, the processing and properties of Beskar and Damascus Steels and the revelation of genuine Damascus Steels are also discussed.