All types of dining forks and spoons are referred to as flatware. When we 
speak of sterling silver flatware, we mean flatware that is made of 92.5% pure silver. Though silver plate flatware may look similar to sterling silver flatware, there is a world of difference because of the significantly less amount of pure silver in the silver plate. Even among sterling silver pieces there are several factors that contribute to their value.
One of the most important contributors to the value of sterling silver flatware is the maker and date of manufacture. The older the item and the more highly respected the maker, the greater the value of the piece. 
You can usually determine the maker and date of manufacture by noticing the symbol, called a hallmark, stamped on the surface of the piece. A piece marked with 925 or “Sterling” or other symbols depending on the maker, indicate that the piece is sterling.
Another factor to consider is the condition of the silver. Generally, the better the condition of the piece, the higher the value, though not always. Some wear is expected on sterling silver flatware, such as blunt fork tines or rounded spoon rims, as flatware is expected to be used rather than simply admired. Flatware that makes up a full dining set and groups of pieces by the same maker generally are worth more. Though sterling silver flatware may be in wonderful condition, a factor that decreases value is engraving of initials on the flatware. The market for flatware with an engraved “Q” on knife handles is limited, and therefore the market value of the flatware is lowered.
Another factor influencing the value of sterling silver flatware is demand for the design. Usually older designs are more highly sought after than newer designs, though fashion changes. Some more modern designs are currently popular. Currently straight designs from the art deco period are more popular than more elaborate and ornate designs.
Finally an added value factor is the provenance of a flatware piece, namely, the origin of the piece with verifiable proof of its history. If a piece can be traced back several generations to a famous historical figure, it is likely to bring a higher price on the market than an undocumented older piece. Usually reference to pieces in wills, diaries, letters or actual receipts are necessary to document sterling silver pieces.
While we have been talking about the actual monetary value of sterling silver flatware, there is also a non-monetary value. A table set with gleaming sterling silver flatware is a delight to one’s eyes. How fortunate is the person who enjoys a full, complete dining set of the most elegant sterling silver flatware. Such value is not measured on the scale of dollars and cents but on the scale of beauty.