Difference between stoneware, ironstone and earthenware

We get "all fired up" over these inquiries about materials used in the making of dinnerware, cookware and server ware.

This is a very common question that we get, especially from our customers or potential customers. You can hold a plate or bowl in your hands, look at it, inspect it thoroughly...even scratch it, but you still will be hard pressed to tell what material it is. To put it simply, the main difference between stoneware, ironstone and earthenware is the temperature at which the clay is fired.

That begs the question, why is the firing temperature important? It is all about how much water it absorbs (porosity), which affects durability.

Now let's add to, but eventually clarify, the confusion a bit.

EARTHENWARE

Earthenware is the oldest and most basic type of pottery, often associated with a rustic or traditional look. It is low fired and very porous. It is not naturally waterproof and it has lower durability that is more susceptible to chipping, crazing, and cracking.

Earthenware often has an earthy, soft, clay like look. The fired clay is typically red, brown, or tan, like terracotta. 

Used primarily for decorative pieces, planters, flower pots or serving dishes that require a thick, protective glaze to be food safe and waterproof.

Avoid putting unglazed or poorly glazed earthenware in the microwave or dishwasher, as they can absorb water and degrade.

STONEWARE

Stoneware is a high fired clay that is durable and the most common choice for both vintage and modern dinnerware. Because it is fairly non porous (or vitrified), the particles in the clay fuse together to form a tight bond that makes it naturally waterproof.

Denser, heavier, more robust than most materials used, it is resistant to chipping and crazing. It is usually gray, white, or light brown and, at times, has a heavier, more substantial feel than earthenware.

An excellent material for daily dinnerware, oven to table cookware, mugs, and pieces that need to withstand frequent washing and temperature changes.

IRONSTONE

Ironstone is a variation of stoneware. First introduced in early19th century England, it was made as a durable, affordable option to porcelain. Ironstonre is known for its toughness, but with a delicate, porcelain type appearance.

Ironstore is a very dense stoneware clay that usually includes ingredients like feldspar, which is a group of minerals that make up about 60% of the Earth's crust and are composed of aluminum, silicon, oxygen, and amounts of potassium, sodium, or calcium. Ironstore usually contains ironstone slag, but is a misnomer. It really contains little to no iron at all and is completely safe to use.

Antique ironstone is highly collectible and sought after, especially white ironstone and flow blue patterns.

SUMMARY

Manufacturers of dinnerware, cookware and natural based products will disclose what materials they have used in building their products. Your choice is usually based off of design, price and availability and what you want in a dinnerware set. It is possible to determine what material your dining items are made of. Look at the underside of the plate for one. Or do a simple online search of that specific pattern, manufacturer or design and hopefully the information that you need is there. If not, drop us a line and we will be more than happy to let you know what your dinnerware is made of.

Happy dining!