Laguiole is a renowned name worldwide, but people still associate it with myths. These myths originate from a lack of knowledge and the spread of fake information. So, let’s examine the most common myths about the Laguiole knife and simultaneously dispel them all without delay.
Myth 1: Laguiole is a Company or Brand
Laguiole is a place in Southern France where the local shepherds introduced the Laguiole knife for daily usage back in the 19th century. However, time passed, and this innovation was improvised into this masterpiece that has become a hunger for everyone today. These Laguiole knives are not registered as any brand or any company. That’s why numerous companies manufacture these knives and distribute them globally. One Laguiole knife is made by a single artist who keeps the legacy as-is.
Myth 2: Laguiole Design is inspired by a Knife from Catalonia (Spain)
Talking about their similarities, both the Laguiole and the Spanish knife have a blade and a handle. However, this also brings an end to its standard features. They have different blade shapes, locking mechanisms, handle designs, and more. In short, these two knives are not the same in any other aspect. Looking at both of them, you can’t find any similarity except the knives’ components and folding traits.
Myths 3: Famous Decoration on the Knife is a Bee or a Fly
There is significant confusion about whether the folding knife section has a bee or a fly as the decoration. However, this misconception is all due to a linguistic misunderstanding. In French, ‘la Mouche’ means fly, which has a broad end at its back. Today, the design can be anything primarily used to fold/unfold the knife. The decoration on Laguiole knives can be anything; it doesn’t necessarily have to be a bee.
Myths 4: Shepherds Cross is an Unmistakable Sign of Authenticity
Many consider the shepherd’s cross as the unmistakable sign of authenticity that ensures you buy a 100% genuine knife. However, this is not right! Instead, the cross was introduced relatively late compared to the invention of these Laguiole knives. The first knives with this decoration started to appear after World War 2. So, avoid spreading this myth about including shepherd crosses in the knife. When buying a Laguiole knife, don’t prefer this decoration as a reference to authenticity. Instead, look for other factors to ensure you buy a genuine knife from the authorized manufacturer.
Myth 5: Knives made in the Town of Laguiole are Authentic
People still believe that Laguiole knives manufactured in Laguiole are considered authentic, and the rest are counterfeit. This isn’t true. Many companies have started manufacturing these knives to restore the legacy among interested people.
So, these are the prominent myths you must know and are debunked simultaneously. Next time if anyone asks you about these myths of Laguiole knives, stay ahead and bust them.
