Love this flatware set.  It arrived beautifully packaged, separated by each place setting, and each utensil was inside it's own compartment wrapped in a cotton case.  The case protects the utensils and can be used for carrying flatware for picnics or even for outside eating when you want to keep them clean until the food is ready.  The pieces are beautiful, a little longer than my current set by about 3/4" - 1" so good for those who have big hands.  One thing to consider is that they are solid and heavier than my other set so there is a need to be careful around dainty dinnerware or china.