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If we look around a typical American kitchen what will we find? Appliances like a stove, a fridge, and a dishwasher, sure…but what about in the cupboard? You will probably see lots of bowls, mugs, plates, and cups. Pretty designs and various shapes, but have you ever stopped to consider what they are made out of? Plastic in the “more economical” kitchens perhaps, but most are made out of three main materials: earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain. We may have heard of these materials before…but what are they? We will be exploring the differences between these three materials in this article.

Earthenware —————- Earthenware is what is known as a “low-fired” clay. This means that it is fired at a low temperature (usually around’15 degrees Fahrenheit). Made from a white and porous clay, it is sometimes called “ceramics” or “ceramic ware”.

Stoneware ————– Stoneware is a “high-fired” clay, and as a result, is much stronger. It is fired at about 2185 degrees Fahrenheit, and becomes vitreous (i.e.: having the nature of glass). After firing it becomes sturdy and chip-resistant.

Porcelain ———– Porcelain is made out of a number of ingredients. A pale clay (such as china white) is the main material. Other materials, such as glass, granite, and feldspar are ground, and then added to the clay. Enough water is added to make the mixture workable. After working this mixture into the shape you want, it is fired in a bisque kiln at a moderate temperature. After glazing and a “high-temperature” firing, you have a piece of pottery that is delicate and translucent.

Telling the Difference ————————– Now that we know a bit about each, how do we tell them apart? Here’s the process:

1) Is it porcelain? The first thing to keep in mind is that porcelain is translucent, while stoneware and earthenware are not. Hold the item up to the light. Can you see the light shining through? If so, then it is porcelain.

2) We now know that it is either earthenware or stoneware. How do we tell the difference between these two? Check out the weight of the item. Is it rather heavy for its size? If so, it’s probably stoneware.

3) If the piece looks like hand-made pottery, then it is stoneware. Stoneware, unlike earthenware, will have a texture to it.

4) If the piece you are holding has a chip in it, take a close look at it. Is the area very white and “chalky” looking? Can you scrape off a bit more material with your fingernail? If so, then it’s probably earthenware. Earthenware (once it has been fired) has a white, chalky look. Stoneware has a darker, textured look.

5) If any part of the piece is unglazed, take a look to see if textured clay is showing through. This means that it is stoneware.

We hope you enjoyed this tour into the world of dinner set materials. Porcelain, earthenware, and stoneware are the three main choices. If you would like to learn more about dinner sets, please visit our blog.

Looking to find the best deal on a white dinner set, then visit www.DinnerSetReview.com to find the porcelain dinner set that is right for you.

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