Barbara 4 I really like this flatware. It looks good on the table and is well-made if a bit heavy. Unfortunately, the black finish is just that -- a finish. I originally thought that the material was black through and through, but that is not the case. I used a scouring sponge on one of the spoons and scrubbed the finish off the edge of the bowl. I don't think I can replace one spoon, and I'm not interested in buying another set. It wouldn't stop me from buying it again, but I will suggest to the seller to mention proper cleaning instructions in the description.