Elegant And Durable Dining: The Anchor Hocking Isabella 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

The Anchor Hocking Isabella 16-piece dinnerware set is a beautiful and functional addition to any home. The set includes glass dishes that are perfect for both casual and formal settings, with a classic, modern, or patterned design that fits any table. Anchor Hocking has been a trusted name in glassware since 1905, and the Isabella collection is no exception. The delicate yet durable composition of the glassware elevates the dining experience, with a beautiful, scrolling decoration that adds a graceful and calming presence to mealtimes.

Anchor Hocking's history and values

Anchor Hocking has a rich history that spans over a century. The company was founded in 1905 by Isaac J. Collins and six friends who shared a simple goal: to make glassware that people needed and could afford. They raised $8,000 to buy the Lancaster Carbon Company, which would become the Hocking Glass Company, named after the Hocking River in Lancaster, Ohio.

In its first year, the company made and sold approximately $20,000 worth of glassware. By 1919, Hocking Glass had 300 employees and $900,000 in annual sales, having diversified into glass tableware. The company continued to expand, acquiring other glass companies and entering new markets, such as the glass container business in 1931.

Anchor Hocking faced challenges, including a fire that destroyed its original plant in 1924 and the Great Depression. However, the company demonstrated resilience, developing innovative machines that increased production rates and helped it survive the economic crisis. In 1937, the Hocking Glass Company merged with Anchor Cap and Closure to become the Anchor Hocking Glass Company.

Anchor Hocking continued to thrive and diversify its product line, entering the plastic market in 1968 and the lighting field in 1970. The company faced financial difficulties in the 1980s and underwent ownership changes, eventually filing for bankruptcy in 2006 and again in 2015. Despite these setbacks, Anchor Hocking remains in operation today, producing glassware for homes and commercial use.

Throughout its history, Anchor Hocking has been characterised by dedication, innovation, and exploration. The company has contributed significantly to the glass industry, with its products becoming commonplace in households worldwide.

The Isabella collection's design and aesthetic

The Anchor Hocking Isabella collection is a beautiful, scrolling decoration that brings a graceful air and a calming presence to your dining experience. The glassware is expertly crafted and designed with a clean and classic aesthetic, making it suitable for any lunch or dinner setting. The delicate look of the glassware is also durable, elevating the dining experience in any home.

The Anchor Hocking brand has been a focus of reliability and innovation since its inception in 1905. The Isabella collection is no exception, with its mix of durable glass and expert style. The glassware is dishwasher-safe and crafted to optimise display, allowing you to beautify more than just your food.

Anchor Hocking glass is a healthier alternative to plastic and metal. It is warp, stain, and smell-resistant, and it will not leach chemicals into your food. This makes it a safe and ideal choice for both casual homes and fine dining restaurants. The versatile designs of the Isabella collection mean maximum usage, fitting any classic, modern, or patterned table setting.

The benefits of glass dinnerware

Glass dinnerware has many benefits that make it a popular choice for households, restaurants, and catering businesses. Here are some advantages of glass dinnerware like the Anchor Hocking Isabella 16-piece set:

Durability

Glass dinnerware is known for its durability. The vitrification process used in its manufacturing makes glass resistant to damage, wear, chipping, cracking, and scratching, ensuring it lasts longer. This makes it ideal for everyday use and perfect for restaurants and catering businesses that require dinnerware to withstand frequent use.

Hygienic and Easy to Clean

The non-porous nature of vitrified glass dinnerware means it has a smooth surface that prevents liquids or food particles from seeping into the material. This makes it easy to clean and maintain, as food residue and stains cannot penetrate the surface. Its non-porous quality also ensures it doesn't absorb moisture or retain odors or flavors from previous meals, making it hygienic and ideal for storing food.

Heat Resistance and Versatility

Glass dinnerware can withstand both high and low temperatures, making it suitable for various cooking methods. It can be used in ovens, microwaves, and freezers without the risk of cracking or shattering. Additionally, glass dinnerware retains heat well, keeping food warm for longer, which is ideal for serving hot meals. Its versatility extends to its design, with a range of styles available to suit casual and formal occasions.

Visual Appeal

The transparency of glass dinnerware enhances the dining experience by allowing the beauty of the food to be displayed. The elegant and contemporary designs of glass dinnerware complement any dish, adding to the visual appeal of the meal. Glass dinnerware can also be combined with other materials, such as metal cutlery and linen napkins, to create a sophisticated table setting.

Safety

Glass dinnerware is a healthy choice as it does not react with food. It is non-toxic and will not leach dangerous chemicals into your meals. It is also dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, and oven-safe, making it convenient for cleaning and cooking.

Anchor Hocking's glass manufacturing process

Anchor Hocking has been manufacturing glassware for over a century, with its glass-making process beginning in 1905 in Lancaster, Ohio. The company was founded by Isaac Jacob (Ike) Collins, who named it after the Hocking River. In 1937, the company merged with the Anchor Cap and Closure Corporation, becoming the Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation.

Anchor Hocking's glassware is made from soda-lime glass, which is stable, durable, and workable. This type of glass can be melted, reshaped, and repurposed and is used in 90% of manufactured glass. The company also employs tempering in its manufacturing process, which involves rapidly cooling molten glass in liquids to make it four times stronger. This technique allows for the creation of products such as car windows, bulletproof panes, rim-tempered beverage glasses, and oven-proof bakeware.

Anchor Hocking's glassware is known for its durability, affordability, and style. The company has a focus on innovation and quality, ensuring that its products are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also tough and long-lasting. The glassware is manufactured primarily at the company's facilities in the United States, with additional items sourced from glassware experts worldwide.

The company has a rich history and has undergone several changes over the years, including expansions, acquisitions, and divestments. It has also faced challenges, such as fires and financial difficulties, but has persevered and continues to be a leading manufacturer of glassware.

Customer reviews of the product

Customer reviews of the Anchor Hocking 10-Inch Isabella Dinner Plate set are mixed. One customer gave the plates a rating of 3 out of 5 stars, citing dissatisfaction with the size of the plates. Another customer gave the set a rating of 1 out of 5 stars, as they only received 6 plates instead of the expected 12. However, some customers are happy with their purchase, with one reviewer giving the set a perfect score, calling it an "excellent quality, beautiful set". Another 5-star review mentions that the plates arrived "right on time".

Frequently asked questions