Usa-Made Bone China Dinnerware

There are several brands of bone china dinnerware made in the USA, including Corelle, HF Coors, Bauer Pottery, Fiesta, and Kate Spade New York. Corelle's Vitrelle line offers modern glass dinnerware, while HF Coors provides elegant and durable options in various colours. Bauer Pottery is known for its Mid-Century Modern designs, and Fiesta offers a wide range of colours and seasonal collections. Kate Spade New York's dinnerware sets are produced by Lenox, the only fine bone china factory in the US, and feature a contemporary aesthetic.

Dinnerware sets

Fiesta Dinnerware:

Fiesta Dinnerware is a well-known brand that offers high-quality ceramic dishes crafted in Newell, West Virginia. Their classic design has remained unchanged, making it easy to replace broken pieces without creating a mismatch. The set typically includes a large dinner plate, a salad plate, a bowl, and a mug, and you can buy as many or as few place settings as needed. Fiesta also offers seasonal dinnerware collections for various holidays and occasions. Their products are lead-free, chip-resistant, and safe for use in the dishwasher, microwave, and oven.

Lenox Fine China:

Lenox is a renowned brand for fine bone china, with the only bone china factory in the USA located in Kinston, North Carolina. Their dinnerware sets feature sophisticated designs and are known for their durability. The Lenox Classic White 16-Piece Dinnerware Set, for example, is chip-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and microwave-safe. Lenox also offers a lifetime breakage replacement program for added peace of mind.

Kate Spade New York:

Kate Spade New York dinnerware sets are produced in collaboration with Lenox in the USA. These sets offer a contemporary twist on classic china dinnerware, featuring signature simplicity and sophistication. The Kate Spade Gardner Street Dinnerware Set and the Kate Spade Chapel Hill Dinnerware Set are just a few examples of their elegant designs.

Corelle Livingware:

Corelle Livingware offers a range of modern glass dinnerware made in the USA. Their sets are known for their sturdy construction and chip-resistance. While the cups that sometimes accompany these sets are made in China, the dinnerware itself is proudly made in America. Corelle provides a variety of designs, including the Cafe Classic, Winter White, Mystic Gray, City Block, and Santorini Sky collections.

HF Coors:

HF Coors is a veteran-owned business based in Tucson, Arizona, known for its simple yet elegant dinnerware sets. Their dishes are lead-free, cadmium-free, and highly durable. The HF Coors White in Matte White set is a popular choice, offering a sleek and modern look. Their dinnerware is safe for use in the dishwasher, microwave, freezer, oven, and broiler.

These are just a few examples of the many bone china dinnerware sets made in the USA. Each brand offers unique designs, features, and price points to suit different tastes and budgets.

Dinnerware brands

When it comes to bone china dinnerware made in the USA, there are several notable brands that stand out for their craftsmanship, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the top dinnerware brands to consider:

Fiesta Dinnerware:

Fiesta, also known as Homer Laughlin, is a well-known and established brand that has been manufacturing dinnerware in the USA since 1936. The company offers a wide range of colours, currently available in 15 different shades, allowing customers to mix and match or choose specific colours for each season. Fiesta's dinnerware is made from fully vitrified lead-free china with a colour glaze, ensuring chip resistance and durability. The brand also offers a variety of matching pieces, such as butter dishes, soup tureens, and teapots, allowing customers to coordinate their dining experience.

HF Coors:

HF Coors is a veteran-owned business that has been creating dinnerware since 1925. The company is based in Tucson, Arizona, and prides itself on providing American jobs and security. HF Coors manufactures lead-free and cadmium-free dinnerware that is safe, durable, and elegant. Their pieces are microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher safe, making them ideal for everyday use. HF Coors offers a variety of designs, from classic all-white dinnerware to colourful and rustic pottery, catering to a diverse range of tastes.

Corelle:

Corelle is a popular brand that has been manufacturing dinnerware in the USA since the early 1970s. While not all of their collections are made in the USA, their Vitrelle line is proudly American-made. Corelle's dinnerware is known for its triple-layer glass construction, making it chip-resistant and lightweight. The brand offers a range of designs, from classic white pieces to more modern and colourful options. Corelle provides an excellent option for those seeking stylish and durable dinnerware.

Bauer Pottery:

Bauer Pottery is a brand steeped in American history, dating back to 1878. The company experienced its glory days in the 1950s with the launch of its Russel Wright line, a modern dinnerware collection that revolutionized the American market. Today, Bauer Pottery continues to create mid-century modern ceramic dinnerware in the USA, using lead-free and cadmium-free glazes. Their pieces reflect a unique blend of classic and contemporary design, making them a sought-after choice for those who appreciate timeless style.

Kate Spade New York:

Kate Spade New York offers a line of sophisticated and elegant dinnerware that is manufactured in North Carolina. The brand is known for its signature simplicity, often featuring delicate accents and real platinum details. The Kate Spade New York Library Lane set, for example, showcases a minimalist design with dark grey rings, making it a versatile choice to match any décor. The brand also offers matching accessories, such as sugar and creamer sets, serving bowls, and wine glasses, allowing customers to create a cohesive tablescape.

These brands not only offer high-quality bone china dinnerware made in the USA but also showcase a commitment to craftsmanship, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Each brand has its unique style and features, providing options for various tastes and preferences.

Dinnerware colours

When it comes to choosing the colour of your bone china dinnerware, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, bone china is known for its elegant and luxurious appearance, so you may want to choose a colour that reflects this. Traditional bone china is known for its soft, creamy white colour, which can add a sense of sophistication and refinement to your table setting. This classic option is versatile and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion, whether it's a casual gathering or a formal dinner party. White bone china is also a great choice if you want to showcase the food itself as the star of the meal, as it provides a neutral backdrop that will make your culinary creations pop.

However, if you're looking to add a touch of personality or a pop of colour to your table, there are plenty of options available. For a subtle twist on the traditional, consider bone china with a hint of soft colour, such as off-white, cream, or ivory. These colours still retain the elegance of classic bone china while adding a bit of warmth and depth to your table setting. You can also find bone china dinnerware with gold or silver rims, which can elevate your tablescape and make it feel extra special. Gold or silver rims can also help to reflect light, creating a sparkling, luxurious atmosphere.

If you want to make a bolder statement, there are plenty of colourful options available in the world of bone china dinnerware. From rich, vibrant hues like teal, raspberry, and marmalade to softer shades like smoke, yolk, and peridot, you can find bone china dinnerware sets that will add a unique touch to your table. These colourful options are perfect for those who want to express their personality through their tableware or create a specific mood or theme for their dining experience.

When choosing a colour for your bone china dinnerware, it's also important to consider the overall style and decor of your dining space. If you have a particular colour scheme or theme in your dining room, you may want to choose dinnerware that complements or accentuates it. Additionally, think about the types of meals you typically serve and how different colours can enhance the dining experience. For example, darker colours can create a more intimate and cosy atmosphere, while lighter colours can make a space feel brighter and more airy.

Finally, don't be afraid to mix and match colours and patterns to create a unique and eclectic tablescape. Some bone china dinnerware sets offer a mix of colours within the same set, or you can curate your own collection by purchasing individual pieces or smaller sets in complementary colours and patterns. This approach can add interest and depth to your table setting and is a great way to showcase your personal style.

Dinnerware materials

When shopping for dinnerware, there are many materials to choose from, each with its own qualities, features, price points, and drawbacks. Here is a guide to help you understand the different materials used for bone china dinnerware and their advantages and disadvantages:

Earthenware

Earthenware is a type of ceramic that has been glazed and fired. It is often less expensive than other types of dinnerware and has a thick, heavy, and rustic look and feel. However, it is not as durable or strong as other materials and is prone to chipping. Dishware with hand-painted designs are typically made of earthenware. Earthenware is usually porous, so it can stain or absorb liquid and should not be left submerged in water. Most glazed earthenware is dishwasher-safe and can be used in the microwave, but it is always good to check with the manufacturer first.

Stoneware

Stoneware is another type of fired ceramic dinnerware that is created by firing clay at a higher temperature and usually adding vitreous (glass) material for strength. It is more durable than earthenware and has a thicker and more opaque body than finer materials like porcelain and china. Stoneware is typically used for casual, everyday place settings and is very versatile and easy to maintain. It is generally microwave, dishwasher, oven, and freezer-safe, but it should not be exposed to sudden or extreme temperature changes. While stoneware is quite durable, it is not as strong or delicate as bone china.

Porcelain and China

Porcelain and china are terms used for dinnerware made from fine-particle clay, typically comprising feldspar, kaolin, and quartz, which is fired at a high temperature. This process results in extremely durable and nonporous dinnerware that can be constructed with a thinner and more delicate appearance. Most fine china is dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe unless otherwise indicated by the manufacturer. While porcelain and china are quite durable, they may not be as strong as bone china and typically have a more elegant or formal look.

Bone China

Bone china is created by combining bone ash, made from animal bones, with porcelain clay and firing it at a slightly lower temperature than porcelain. This results in dinnerware that is very lightweight, delicate, and translucent with a milky appearance. Despite its fragile presentation, bone china is the strongest and most durable ceramic dinnerware. It is also typically dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe, unless it has metallic banding. Bone china has a more upscale look compared to other materials and can be used for both formal dining occasions and everyday use.

Melamine

Melamine is a plastic material that is lightweight, sturdy, inflexible, and has a glossy finish. It is virtually indestructible and ideal for children and outdoor use. While melamine is top-rack dishwasher-safe, it is not suitable for the microwave or oven and should not be heated with food in it.

Vitrified Glass

Vitrified glass is glass that has been fired at an ultra-high temperature to make it nonporous and extremely durable. Corelle is a well-known brand of vitrified glass dinnerware that is virtually indestructible and will not break or chip, even when dropped. It is safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave.

Dinnerware safety

When it comes to dinnerware safety, there are several factors to consider to ensure that your tableware is safe for use with food and drinks. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Understanding "Food Safe" and "Dinnerware Safe"

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States issues Compliance Policy Guides (CPGs) that outline acceptable levels and test methods for lead and cadmium leaching in ceramic products. While it is not illegal for a foodware item to contain traces of these substances, they must test below the established thresholds to be considered safe.

The term "Food Safe" refers specifically to the glaze on ceramics in its final, fired state, and indicates that it has passed industry standards for food safety when used according to the manufacturer's directions. On the other hand, "Dinnerware Safe" means that the material used to create the dinnerware has been tested and confirmed not to contain harmful levels of chemicals such as lead or cadmium. It also signifies that the surface is non-porous, smooth, and free from cracks, chips, or other imperfections that could harbour bacteria.

Choosing the Right Materials

Not all materials are created equal when it comes to dinnerware safety. Here are some options to consider:

• Bone china: This is a strong and durable option that is less likely to chip, making it a good choice for reducing the risk of toxins leaching into food and drinks.
• Stoneware: Stoneware is generally safer than earthenware as it is fired at higher temperatures, resulting in stronger and more durable dinnerware.
• Glass: Glass, particularly soda lime glass, borosilicate glass, and glass ceramic, is considered one of the safest options as it does not easily or noticeably leach lead.

Avoiding Toxic Chemicals

To ensure the safety of your dinnerware, it is important to avoid certain toxic chemicals and materials:

• Lead: Lead has been commonly used in ceramics for its ability to create bright colours, shiny surfaces, and improved durability. However, it can be toxic to humans, especially children, and can cause lead poisoning if accumulated in the body.
• Cadmium: Cadmium is another heavy metal that can be found in glazed ceramics, particularly in bright colours like red, orange, and yellow. It is bio-accumulative and can pose health risks.
• BPA and phthalates: These chemicals are often found in plastic dinnerware and should be avoided.

Tips for Safer Dinnerware

• Choose lead-free or lead-safe options when shopping for dinnerware.
• Look for dinnerware that adheres to FDA or California's Proposition 65 standards.
• Avoid vintage dinnerware, especially if it was manufactured before 1970, as it may contain higher levels of lead.
• Avoid storing food and drinks in glazed containers, and be cautious when serving acidic foods and drinks on glazed dishes.
• Limit the use of high heat with glazed dinnerware to reduce the risk of leaching.
• Handwash glazed dinnerware instead of putting it in the dishwasher to reduce the risk of damage.
• Do not use damaged dinnerware as it may harbour bacteria and increase the risk of toxin leaching.

By following these guidelines and choosing dinnerware made with safe materials, you can ensure that your bone china dinnerware from the USA is safe for everyday use.

Frequently asked questions