How To Buy Crockery

The role of the dining room has changed from being merely a place to dine in to one of stately proportions. You can proudly exhibit some of those out of the world crockery pieces in an eye-catching wall display right here! Crockery has by far become an integral part of every dining room, not only because it may be unique but also because it can lend grandeur even to a humble little dwelling. You will hardly find a modern household without at least one set of crockery proudly exhibited in a rather strategic spot on the mantle or showcase, and another set for daily use. You simply cannot ignore the grace and class that a fine piece of crockery adds to the decor of the dining room, giving it a royal ambience. The charm and warmth of fine crockery set is sure to be appreciated by even the most unromantic. That is a telling commentary on the indispensability of fine ceramic crockery in every setting- be they our daily dining room, or a restaurant, at family celebrations or formal affairs. Crockery enhances the positive mood and vibes, soothing the mind of the guest and the host alike. And since many a thing can happen over coffee, you should have a good crockery collection indeed. Go through the following tips on choosing crockery to adorn your home. 

Things To Know While Buying Crockery

Before deciding on what to buy, learn about different types of crockery that is available. The four types of crockery that you can generally find are as follows: 

Bone China 

It was fashioned in England by a man called Josiah Spode in the 18th century as a contender for porcelain. Made from animal bone ash and some feldspathic material, it is well known for its perfect whiteness and high translucency. Because of its greater strength, it can be made into the most delicate items. It is the color, translucency and resemblance to Chinese porcelain that makes Bone China a more cost effective choice. It comes in many colors and patterns as well.

Porcelain 

China is the birthplace of Porcelain clay-making which is why even now in some English speaking places, porcelain is called China. Porcelain comes in umpteen numbers of shapes and sizes. It is made by treating clay at different temperatures. Not only is it hard and strong, it is known for its brittleness, whiteness and translucence too. One other important factor is that it is highly resistant to chemical as well as thermal attacks. Porcelain crockery differs in the price range; while some of it can come cheap and easy to handle, there is the expensive kind too that can cost a pretty penny and you need to be extra cautious while maintaining it.

Earthenware 

It is a combination of different clays like red, white or buff. Earthenware is made by molding different clay biscuits treated at different high temperatures. It can be made thick or thin. Though considered cost-effective, it is not as tough or water-resistant as other ceramics. Earthenware has to be glazed or else it will absorb water, making the cleaning process difficult. Raku, terra-cotta, majolica are different earthenware in which crockery is available.

Stoneware 

It is a vitreous or semi-vitreous ceramic that is considered the toughest of the many ceramics. It is also made out of a combination of clays; it is usually made by treating non-refractory clay with fire. Though it is more waterproof than earthenware it should also be glazed for better performance. It is strong and durable, making it a perfect choice for daily use crockery. There are different types of stoneware available in the market.

How To Choose 

In order to check whether the porcelain that you are getting is original or not, you can do the following test. First look if it is perfectly white in color, then bring it under the light and see whether the light passes through it. If it passes both the tests, then it is porcelain. While choosing any crockery you have to keep in mind the use, cost, size and maintenance.

Use 

You can not use crockery only for a day or so. While choosing crockery, make it a point to choose wisely and get pieces that are both beautiful to see and can be taken into daily use also. Crockery made of clay is more long lasting as compared to that made from bone china. Stoneware is also a sure bet.

Cost 

The value of crockery depends on how fine and delicate the piece is. Crockery made of bone-china is quite expensive compared to other crockery such as earthenware or stoneware. But bone china is not that heat resistant and can even easily crack or break if exposed to a high temperature.

Maintenance 

Not all ceramic crockery can be maintained easily. Crockery made out of bone china has to be looked after well and is better to be used as a collection than for daily use. Earthenware can easily be chipped if not maintained well. Porcelain, since treated at high temperatures, is heat resistant. Some types of crockery nowadays is also dishwasher and oven friendly.

Number 

Ensure that you get enough pieces in the set to fill your dining table. It depends upon the number of people your dining table can accommodate. For that uniformity in your table setting, you should have enough crockery to serve everyone in the same type. With equal number of stainless steel spoons and forks matching each plate, you are sure to give your guest a visual feast to remember for long.