Dinnerware Porcelain vs. Earthenware

Setting the table.

Choosing tableware can be a daunting task. There are so many styles and colors that the difficulty may not be finding a pattern you love but rather narrowing your choices. Your lifestyle should guide your selection.

Porcelain vs. Earthenware

How is dinnerware made?

Porcelain dinnerware is made from high-quality clay and is usually translucent. It is nonporous and vitreous, which means it has a solid, glassy surface. Earthenware is made from lower-grade clay and does not possess the translucent and vitreous qualities of porcelain. Because it is porous, earthenware must usually be glazed.

The Look

Achieving the look.

Porcelain gives a more delicate, formal look to a table. Earthenware usually has a more chunky look and is better suited to casual entertaining and everyday dining.

Lifestyle

Suiting your lifestyle.

While earthenware chips more easily than porcelain, it is typically much less expensive to replace. Consider how, and how often, you will use your tableware before you make your choice.

Colors

Rich color.

The colors and patterns for porcelain dinnerware are limitless, but the body color is usually fired to a white or off-white finish. The color of an earthenware piece can be light or dark and a rainbow of rich, saturated hues is available.

The Choice

Making the choice.

Your choice comes down to personal preference. Porcelain can be dressed down and earthenware can be spiced up with your choice of accessories. The true dinnerware aficionado may not be able to choose and will have at least one set of both.

References

• Replacements Ltd.: Earthenware, Bone China, Porcelain and Stoneware Dinnerware Sets