The China Closet: A Glossary of Terms

Filed under: Registry & Gifts

Courtesy of Wedgwood

History

The history of porcelain (china) began in the 13th-century Chinese province of Jiangxi. The people of the Yuan dynasty fired kaolin (fine white clay made from decomposed granite, found within the Gaoling Mountains in China), to create the type of material that most closely resembles what we know today as porcelain. In the 1700s, Europeans mastered the art of making earthenware and porcelain similar to the type found in China. Bone china was first produced in Europe in the late 1700s. Using bone ash (calcified cattle bone), china stone (feldspar-rich granite) and kaolin, they were able to create a type of china similar in color and make-up to porcelain, but much stronger due to the bone ash.

The Choices

From earthenware to fine bone china, there is a wide variety of materials to choose from. The different types of china vary based on quality-related factors, such as the firing temperature, clay content and amount of water used. These all contribute to the finished product. Here is a general list of the types of ceramic dinnerware and their top characteristics.

Earthenware This is the general term for a less refined clay. Earthenware is fired at the lowest kiln temperature; therefore it is not as durable as other types of china. It tends to chip easily, so handle with care.

Ironstone This stronger, finer kind of earthenware is made with finer clays and is fired at higher temperatures.

Source : http://www.aisledash.com