Sorry to come to this one late. I've been dealing with health issues for several weeks and have just returned here. 
   
  The pommel illustrated on a number of these swords could also be a lotus bud. The lotus flower is an auspicious item in a number of cultures, especially among Buddhist societies, and is prominent for example in SE Asia. Both Thai and Burmese dha/daab have featured pommels based on the lotus motif. Typically, these pommels are somewhat pointed at the end, as seen on some of the examples shown here. 
   
  Ian. 
   
   
  Attached:  Picture of lotus bud ... 
   
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