I started to gather information about silverware years ago after I purchased a set of china, crystal glasses, both wine and water. I went to a local department store and asked questions. A sales associate told me that Ricci Flaware is of the finest quality available in flatware. She said that quality begins with the silversmiths. Ricci flatware has been around for years and was not available in that department store. I came home and tried to see if was available on ebay and it was. Ricci silverware is well worth the price. The beauty and expert craftsmanship is second to none others.