Earthenware

Earthenware, pottery that has not been fired to the point of vitrification and is thus slightly porous and coarser than stoneware and porcelain. The body can be covered completely or decorated with slip (a liquid clay mixture applied before firing), or it can be glazed. For both practical and decorative reasons, earthenware is usually glazed. To overcome its porosity (which makes it impracticable for storing liquids in its unglazed state, for example), the fired object is covered with finely ground glass powder suspended in water and is then fired a second time. During the firing, the fine particles covering the surface fuse into an amorphous, glasslike layer, sealing the pores of the clay body.

Stoneware

Stoneware is a type of non-porous ceramic dinnerware made from unrefined clay and has a gritty texture because of its sand content. It that has been fired at a temperature between 1,100 °C (2,010 °F) to 1,300 °C (2,370 °F) . This dinnerware often has a thicker build than porcelain and china. The relatively high firing temperature, thick build, and mix of clay and vitreous ceramic materials all help to make stoneware a durable, hearty dinnerware option for restaurants. Stoneware is more opaque than porcelain or china because of its thicker construction and material makeup. Stoneware is oven safe. Additionally, it’s microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe. However, you’ll want to confirm this information with the manufacturer before use, as these features can be affected by certain glazes or paints. Our stoneware products are mainly made in Dehua, which is a county located in central Fujian province.

Porcelain

Porcelain is made from fine, white clay, known as kaolin, with added ingredients such as feldspar, and fired at a very hot 2300°F (1260°C). The pieces are smooth and a translucent white, very strong and especially useful in the kitchen because of being non-porous, non-stick, and dishwasher safe. Porcelain is, not surprisingly, one of the most expensive kinds of pottery. Our porcelain products are mainly made in Chaozhou which is in the eastern Guangdong province.

Bone China

Bone china is the strongest of the porcelain or china ceramics, having very high mechanical and physical strength and chip resistance, and is known for its high levels of whiteness and translucency.

First of all, what the heck is bone china? It’s fine china with one key difference—bone china actually contains real bones (cow bone ash, usually). This special ingredient makes bone china thinner and smoother than regular porcelain, giving it a creamy, white color and opaqueness.

And why is it so expensive? Lightweight yet durable, bone china is usually more expensive than other china thanks to pricier materials (yep, the bone ash) and the extra labor required to make it. But not all bone china is created equal—the quality depends on how much bone is in the mixture. If you’re in the market for the best of the best, aim for at least 30 percent bone.

Stoneware vs Porcelain

Porcelain and china are fired at a higher temperature than stoneware but feature similarly durable and nonporous constructions. Both china and porcelain are made of a finer particle clay than stoneware, which results in a thinner construction and more translucent body. Additionally, the thinner construction and higher firing temperature allows for special shaping or patterning.

Depending on the glaze, embellishments, or manufacturing process, many porcelain pieces are similarly dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe. But, just like stoneware, you should always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions before use.

Stoneware vs Earthenware

Earthenware is derived from clay and features a much more porous surface than stoneware. Additionally, it is fired at a lower temperature and must be glazed or painted before use. Earthenware is often a more economical choice of dinnerware, but it tends to chip and break much easier than stoneware.