Wootz is the common name for an ancient crucible steel-making process, and consequently, the name for the steel itself. Wootz steel is a much higher quality than bloomery iron and the steel made from it. Historically, there were two major places of Wootz production, India and the Middle East. Some Wootz steel was also made in Asia.
The quality and appearance of the Wootz steel varies greatly and depends on the production technology and raw materials (ore). The primary difference between Wootz and Damascus steel is that Wootz steel is forged from one piece of ingot, or a whole ingot of crucible steel. In rare circumstances, two or more ingots are forge welded together in order to make one very big and heavy item. Generally, though, Wootz is never forge welded because that destroys its unique steel properties.
The Wootz steel pattern of the blade is revealed after etching. The pattern is absolutely unique and cannot be reproduced by any means. The pattern of Wootz steel is created during the ingot solidification and is formed naturally and randomly. Forging techniques may alter the pattern to some extent, but the character of the pattern remains unpredictable and unique. An expert can accurately determine the quality of Wootz steel simply by looking at the pattern on the blade; however, it is impossible to discern the quality of the Damascus steel by examining the blade pattern.
Wootz steel generally has very high carbon content relative to modern factory steels. The unique Wootz technology results in a very strong blade. Historically, Wootz blades were intended to cut rather than to hatch. A quality Wootz blade will survive when hit against iron armor, but the blade will most likely lose its razor sharp edge. For armor piercing, there are Wootz weapons with special tips. They are much thicker and do not have very sharp edges. Most of the Wootz blades are saber or dagger types.