Quality, in the context of silver, is a combination of the following attributes an item may have.
A high or good quality piece should be able to clearly fulfil the following criteria:
1 - Identification
1.1 - Hallmarks:
These should be genuine and correctly placed.
Town mark, date letter and quality mark should be as clear as possible in relation to the age and use of the item.
1.2 - Style:
Chasing and Engraving - Examine the decoration on the item. Is it contemporary to that piece, or has it been added later? Engraving may wear with use and cleaning.