Dark Fantasy Series - A unique weapon is the focus of this elves identify

[Craig Glass]

I read this series maybe 10 years ago but I think its an older book series.

I remember that the main character was an Elf with a unique sword and that their empire was in ruins.

The main thing I remember is the description of these ships which were described as large golden ziggurats.

Its a darker story and I think its a three book series.

[Capn]

Craig, when you say "older" series, which decade(s) would you guess at? 60s? 80s?

Read in English? Which country are/were you in at the time?

Was the series meant for teenagers, or is this definitely for adults?

(Remember anything about the sword? Shape? Colour? Powers?)

Ships float on water, or do they fly?

[Marc *Dark Reader with a Thousand Young! Iä!*]

This is a stretch guess, Elric of Melniboné?