If that had been original blue it would just be a brown gun. I don't think its been refinished, I'll bet when cleaned inside that sideplate will sit flush. I don't see other indications(?)
Grips are difficult to find, and expensive.
I'd think twice before sending it to Fords, what they did to a Colt once posted here would keep me from EVER sending anything to them. A righteous hand-polish and professional rust blue could make it a very nice revolver.
I don't think you got hurt too badly, and i'm normally the skeptic.