When choosing patterns of tableware, you need to know basic terminology of classifications in each group-dinnerware, stemware, flatware and hollowware. Earthenware - Made from less refined clays than china, it is low-fired which causes it to remain relatively soft and porous. Thus it is less durable than china or porcelain. China - A ceramic made of white clay and pulverized stone, fired at a high temperature. It is thin, translucent, and resistant to chipping and/or breaking and 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. Porcelain - A fine, hard, translucent material made from kaolin, quartz and feldspar and fired at high temperatures. It is translucent and hard. 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% and up to 32% lead oxide. The lead imparts brilliance and is responsible for the bell-like tone that is produced when the piece is struck. Sterling - The Queen of flatware, made of 925 parts of pure silver and 75 parts of an alloy. Silverplate - Made from a base metal and electroplated with pure silver. Stainless - Made from a steel alloy 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 the stainless. Accessories for the table and home available in sterling, silverplate, pewter, stainless and other materials.
Dinnerware
Stemware
Flatware
Hollowware
