Most of my experience with CRK damascus is with the Devin Thomas Damascus. Many say Chad Nichols is just as good or better. While I have some Spartans with it, I haven’t used them. The DT is tough as nails. Takes and holds a good edge easily and with beauty to boot. DT quit making Stainless Damascus I believe and nearly all makers have turned to Chad Nichols.
The only thing I have seen that will slightly lighten Damascus over extend period of time is cutting cardboard. But even that was minimal and only noticed at close observation. Cutting food, just wipe it off after use is all like any blade. Renaissance Wax is a good protectant for Damascus as well.
I did buy a large Damascus UG 21 from a gentleman that had rouging on it. The blade looked pitted also. He ended up giving me a fair price on it as we both felt it would have to be sent to CRK for re-etching. When I got it, I used a paper towel with lightly sprayed WD-40 on it and rubbed with some light elbow grease on it and ALL the roughing and pits completely disappeared. A paper towel is just abrasive enough to do the job. I felt 0000 steel wool was to abrasive. I have carried and used this particular one exclusively and the roughing never came back and it still looks like new over a year later. This is a tip I recommend for Anyone with any discoloration with Damascus and a testament to how tough and durable DT Stainless Damascus is.
Hope this helps. Damascus isn’t just for looks. It’s a great EDC Steel as well and there is a special feeling when using it because of its sheer beauty.
Be Safe.