Dinnerware Glossary
Earthenware - Made from less refined clays than china, it is a low fired which causes it to remain relatively soft and porous. Because of this, it is less durable than china or porcelain, but more cost effective due to it’s rapid manufacturing. Brightly colored dinnerware often fall into this category, such as Fiestaware. Don’t let it’s durable appearance fool you, Earthenware is much less durable than china and bone china.
Stoneware - Bridges the gap between ea
rthenware and china. Like china, it is fired at high temperatures so that it is hard, smooth and non-porous. However, it is made of course, sandy clays s which burn to a dark color. It has an earthy appearance often decorated with bright decals. It does lack the delicacy of fine china.
China - A ceramic made of white clay and pulverized stone, fired at a high temperature. It is thin, translucent, resistant to chipping and/or breaking. It will ring when tapped.
Bone China - In addition to china clays, this ceramic product contains a percentage of bone ash, giving it a characteristic whiteness. Neither china or bone china will absorb grease or water when the glaze is chipped.
Porcelain - A fine, hard translucent material made from kaolin, quartz and feldspar and fired at high temperature. It is translucent and hard. Like china, porcelain will not absorb grease or water and is just as durable.
Stemware glossary
Glass - Essentially a mixture of sand, potash and lime or lead oxide which is then melted under high temperatures along with other ingredients to give it specific qualities of color, strength and refraction. Once melted, the molten glass is either molded or blown.
Crystal - To qualify as crystal, lead oxide is added to the potash and soda.
Lead Crystal - Glass that contains at least 24%-32% lead oxide. The lead imports brilliance and is responsible for the bell-like tone that is produced when the piece is struck.
Flatware glossary
Sterling - The queen of flatware, made of 925 parts of pure silver and 75 parts of an alloy. The advantages to sterling are the following;
-it is the most hygienic metal known to man
- It does not give off substances that affect the taste of food
- it is hard and very wear resistant
- Sterling is a precious metal and lasts almost forever
- It becomes heritage for future generations, therefore a wise investment
- If used frequently, it will not tarnish. It’s easy to wash .
Silverplate - Made from a base metal and electroplated with pure silver.
Stainless - Made from a steel allow with chromium so as to inhibit corrosion and rust. The best quality stainless is marked “18/8” the ratio of chromium and nickel used to make stainless. This is the most price “sensitive option” due to it’s easy manufacturing. It also comes in a variety of patterns.
I hope this helps you to make some registry decisions!
Happy planning!
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