To answer some questions above:
I just boosted a character parked at level 30 *forever* to level 110 and I did not receive an Artifact for my specialization OR the three item level 870 relics for the Artifact. I just got the quest when I got to Dalaran to pick the first of three available Artifact weapons.
No, even if you do the class trial method. :(
This "guide" needs to be seriously updated as the current ilvl is no where near 870 anymore since Blizzard decided to once again nerf the entire game as if we are all level 80-90 again.