The solution to the custom vs. handmade vs. production problem is information.
The knifemaker societies should establish some standard information that their members provide for all knives. For example, who did the heat treat? Who made the knife and sheath, one person, two, or the shop? Give their names. Who made the damascus? Was it done by power hammer or hand? Is the blade stock removal, hand forged or forged with a power hammer? Was the blade constructed using hand tools, power tools or CNC machines? Was the handle material made/gathered by the maker or bought?
The society/guild could set up a standard set of information that all members would provide. That way the buyer could know and compare. Those that wouldn't provide the information cannot sell at your functions or be a member. Basically it would be providing a somewhat standardized set of information as a kind of certificate of authenticity or creation.
