The blade was a dull gray when I got it and yeah it was 2". All I actually got was 12" lengths that were cut from a commercial blade. I would have loved to see the saw! The shine came from polishing...just like a laquer finish, sandpaper to 2000 grit and micromesh to 12000. There are still some scratches, but they are highly reflective scratches.
And thanks Bargle, it was a fun way to use up some offcuts.
SR