A question regarding certain contact other planes special properties.

There are some items that have "special properties" that do not seem to do anything, but perhaps I am misunderstanding what it means.

"This item has special properties when looked at."
There are several items that have this property, but do not seem to serve any function. Is there something I am missing about this?

Also, what is the difference between "has special properties in combat" (Tends to be a prog) and "has special properties when striking" (No obvious effect).

Thanks.