Higo-Zogan, a form of Damascene, a metal inlaid manufacturing process, is a traditional Japanese handcraft with a 400 year history and is exclusive to the Kumamoto region. Originally developed from the collaboration between Gunsmiths and Goldsmith, Higo-Zogan became an art form unto itself. These revered craftsmen originally developed ornaments for battlefield weapons such as protective handles for swords. For the Higo-Zogan, the Edo-period (1600-1867) marked a golden-age. As the political climate in Japan changed, so did the products produced by the HigoZogan craftsmen. The end of the Edo-period and the introduction of the Meiji Restoration (1868-1912) brought about considerable change for all Japanese. The ninth year of the Meiji Restoration saw the introduction of laws forbidding the ownership of weapons; thus dealing a blow to the Higo-Zogan industry. Instead of halting their manufacturing wayof-life, the Higo-Zogan refocused their energy and skills to produce fine tiepins, cuff links, cigarette cases, earrings, etc.