The Difference in Engraved or Cut Lines, and Etched Lines
Lines cut with the graver are invariably smooth and even, and have a clear silvery appearance; in isolated lines or cuts it will be observed that the beginning of the lines are finer where the graver has entered than where it stops. Etched lines, on the contrary, do not possess the same smooth-edged rigid character as those cut with the graver; and where greater strength of line is obtained it is by deeper etching with the acid bath, and in this the difference in the quality of line is more perceptible.