By tradition, the athame is a ceremonial knife
used especially in the performing of spells. It is
not intended for cutting herbs and so on: its
role is ceremonial, for example indicating the
quarters or directions. Ideally it should be of
the best and purest metal available. Its handle is
usually black and sometimes carved with
magical designs and symbols. Many
experienced magical practitioners consider that
the most powerful athame is one which has
been inherited.
