I'm all for it unless the "artifacts" have stats.. This game is becoming increasingly item-based to a point where you literally don't even need a crafted item to put together an amazing suit. You can easily find an artifact ring, bracelet, gloves, tunic, leggings, helmet, shield, weapon, etc. to use in a suit without even considering using something player-crafted. Not to mention that there are now half aprons and body sashes with stats.
More decorative stealables? Definitely.
As for bringing back the old stealables, I think they should remain as they are now- unstealable. This will keep the rares market in UO somewhat alive.