about us

      Welcome to the Diamond Rose Academie d'Armes . This style of "period" fencing is unlike the present day fencing. We strive to teach historically accurate fencing skills from the period of the late 1500's and early 1600's. During this time period many weapons were used for defense, and both men and women participated in this art. Located in Auburn, CA, the Diamond Rose school encourages students of all ages to come and try this very fascinating and challenging activity. Although age is not a limiting factor to one's ability to fence, maturity level is a factor and we do request that those wishing to participate be at least 15 yrs. of age, but the final decision is up to the discretion of the instructors.
       It is preferred and encouraged at tournaments for you to adopt the dress and costume from the time period.

The Diamond Rose Curriculum for Rapier Combat

An Overview:
    The Diamond Rose is committed to high quality training and development of combatants in the art of historical rapier combat. Using the Schlager or the Del Tin practice rapier, along with various secondary weapons such as cloak, dagger, cane and buckler participants will recreate the style and techniques used by the duelists of the 15th and 16th centuries. Students undergo a full training program before being allowed to engage in actual combat with others, learning not only how to ensure their own personal safety, but that of the other participants as well. When a student has been instructed and tested, they will be allowed to don protective armor, which gives this sport it's high degree of safety without encumbering their abilities.

Advancement:
    Rank advancement within the our school is based upon many particulars, which include knowledge of rapier use and theory, and practice and theory of the duel. Also essential are honorable conduct on and off the field and the most important, being of service to the school. Anyone seeking advancement within the school must have a sponsor of senior rank to the candidate who will guide the student and prepare for promotion. The sponsor and the candidate will meet with the Maestro of the School to discuss a date of testing and advancement. Testing and advancement are performed at and during classes and tournaments so that the student may be recognized in a public forum before their friends, family and peers. By doing promotions in this manner each student will prove that he/she is worthy of said promotion. A vote shall be conducted at the time of testing by the senior members to see if the student is indeed worthy of being promoted at that time. This will help to insure that only qualified students are promoted.