Naming magical items

[was]

Just curious to see how many people name the magical items that are awarded to their pc's and how they name them. Are the names long and elaborate or short and simple?

 

[Quickleaf]

Was, I always name magical items (except for potions, scrolls, and charms...and even then sometimes I do). Magic items are very rare in my games, and tend to be quite powerful, with histories and names that are appropriate. Most names are relatively short, while the histories can be quite long. Usually the names involve so-and-so's BLANK, or the BLANK of such-and-such, though sometimes I use made-up words like the Amberigne which are based on real-words or have a certain cultural sound to them.

 

[Goolpsy]

Normal items.. even a plain and simple +5 Holy Keen Greatsword... is nothing more than it already is... specific items i do name however... and i use both methods.. while i tend to have a simple name for the item.. and a nickname afterwards abit longer describing it... etc "Quence - The holy Purifyer"

 

[Zweihänder]

I tend to name anything with an enhancement rating over +5; i.e.: a player of mine recently found a +4 Ghost Touch Wailing Scimitar, which I introduced to her as The Banshee's Keen. I don't tend to make up words, though I do use a lot of esoteric words in the titles (one of my players swore I made up the word "thane". silly child was shown the book Macbeth, and set straight.)

 

[Ibram]

Since permanent magic items are quite rare IMC they all recieve a special name:

examples from my Orental Campaing

Daisho of the Honored Path: a set of items (Katana and wakashi) that only work for one with honorable intentions... In addition to its level based enhancement bonus it gives bonuses to saving throws.

Fang of the Thunder Dragon: A shocking Jainn (rapier) with a storng, yet not suspected by the party, connection to the spirit world.

"Conquest": So called because that is what is etched on the blade, its actual name is unknown. An ancient broadsword forged by a race of humans known as the "Dragon Kings" who were once an unstopable horde coming up from the south. This sword has the most powerful fate of any the party wields, though the current wielder has no idea of its final purpose. The sword currently only grants bonuses to attacks on charges and to intimidate checks.

 

[was]

I've been giving all of them names lately. Usually just short, one-word names. Anyways, thanks to all who responded.