monograms

[tr888]

I searched for "monogram" here and got no results, so I assume this question hasn't been asked here already many times.

Are there three classes of silver flatware? Monogrammed, never-been-monogrammed, and monogram-removed? Is it possible for a good silversmith to remove a ribbon-script monogram removing all traces of it without ruining the piece in the process?
.

[silverly]

These are my observations and opinions on this matter:

I'll agree with your breakdown for engraved, engraving removed and new engraving over an old engraved area.

I'm guessing that the consensus is do not remove engraving. It is part of the history of the item and sometimes tells a lot about it.

I don't think that it is possible to remove engraving without it being detectable. Even if none of the features of a pattern are disturbed, the patina is altered in the area that the engraving was removed.

Can we see the item or items that are being discussed?

Whatever you choose to do, good luck with your silver.
.

[JLDoggett]

I never suggest a client remove engraving. If the piece is pre 1900 I simply refuse to do the work as it would devalue the piece completely and in the case of coin, will produce a major thin on the butt. This is especially important when dealing with antiqu pieces where the engraving is contempory to the manufacture.

More modern pieces can have the engraving erased but the cost to do it properly usually discourages the client from doing it. The prospect of spending 25-40 dollars per piece usually ends the discussion, those who still want it done are usually unhappy with the results as the pieces no longer match the patina of the rest of the set (usually done when someone buys a piece to fill a service).
.