Estate Dinnerware Sets: Elevating The Art Of Dining

Dinnerware sets the stage for memorable meals and offer an opportunity to express your personal style. A great set will bring a touch of class to any dinner table and remain in fashion for years, all while withstanding the rigors of daily use.

There are endless styles and patterns to choose from, and with so many dinnerware options to consider, it can be a daunting task to select the perfect set. However, a good set of dinnerware is a neutral canvas for any meal, allowing the food to make a statement without distractions.

Dinnerware sets come in a variety of materials, including fine china, fine bone china, porcelain, stoneware, earthenware, glass, and melamine. Porcelain or stoneware are the best choices for everyday use as they are durable and chip-resistant.

When buying a dinnerware set, it is important to consider how you plan to use it. Durability is essential for everyday sets, so look for chip-resistant materials and check the manufacturer's recommendations for microwave and dishwasher use.

Additionally, pay attention to what is included in the set. A setting typically includes three to four pieces, such as a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, and mug or cup and saucer. You can also find larger sets that provide service for four to six people.

No matter your price point or style, there is a dinnerware set out there that will suit your needs and help you create memorable meals.

Materials: Porcelain, stoneware, bone china, glass, and earthenware are common

Porcelain, stoneware, bone china, glass, and earthenware are common materials for dinnerware. Each material has its own qualities, features, price points, and drawbacks.

Porcelain

Porcelain is a type of ceramic made from a fine-particle clay fired at a high temperature. This process makes porcelain extremely durable and nonporous, with a thin and delicate construction. It often has an upscale look, lending itself to more formal dining occasions, but it can also be used every day to make any meal a little more elegant. Brands to look for include Lenox, Noritake, and Villeroy & Boch.

Stoneware

Stoneware is a type of ceramic fired at a higher temperature than earthenware, resulting in a thicker, stronger, and more durable dinnerware. It is typically used in casual, everyday place settings and is very versatile and easy to maintain. It can go in the microwave, dishwasher, oven, and freezer, but it should not be exposed to sudden or extreme temperature changes. Stoneware is slightly more expensive than earthenware but is a better value if you're looking for something simple and long-lasting. Brands to look for include Pfaltzgraff, Dansk (Lenox), and Fiesta (Homer Laughlin).

Bone China

Bone china is a type of porcelain made with a clay body that includes bone ash, typically from cow bones. This additional ingredient gives bone china enhanced strength and a distinctive milky white and translucent appearance. It is the strongest and most durable ceramic dinnerware, and it is also dishwasher-safe and, unless it has metallic banding, can go in the microwave and oven as well. Bone china is typically more expensive than porcelain or stoneware. Brands to look for include Royal Doulton, Wedgewood, and Mikasa.

Glass

Glass dinnerware, such as Corelle, is made from vitrified glass, which is glass fired at an ultra-high temperature so that it is nonporous and extremely durable. Glass dinnerware is safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave and is a good choice for sustainability as it is non-toxic and chip-resistant.

Earthenware

Earthenware is the cheapest type of dinnerware and is typically fired at a lower temperature than stoneware or porcelain. It has a thick, heavy, and rustic look and feel, but it is not as durable or strong and is prone to chipping. It is also porous, so it should not be left submerged in water. Most glazed earthenware is dishwasher-safe and can be used in the microwave.

Durability: Look for chip-resistant materials that can be microwaved and dishwashed

When it comes to durability, it's important to look for chip-resistant materials that can be safely used in the microwave and dishwasher. Here are some factors to consider when choosing durable dinnerware:

Materials

Stoneware is a popular choice for its durability and rustic aesthetic. It is often speckled in off-white or ivory hues but also comes in muted colours. Stoneware is heavy, thick, and long-lasting. Porcelain is another common material for dinnerware. It is less expensive than bone china and offers a good balance of price, durability, and weight, making it suitable for daily use and formal dinners. Bone china is the most durable ceramic dinnerware, known for its translucent and luminous glaze. It is lightweight and thin but can be more expensive.

Microwave and Dishwasher Safety

Not all dinnerware is microwave and dishwasher-safe. Some materials, like bone china, may not be suitable for microwaves or dishwashers, so always check the care instructions. Stoneware and porcelain are usually safe for both, but it's important to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines.

Chip Resistance

Chip resistance is a crucial factor in durability. Look for dinnerware specifically marketed as chip-resistant, as this will ensure your dishes last longer. Some materials, like stoneware and porcelain, are inherently more chip-resistant than others.

Additional Tips

To increase the longevity of your dinnerware, avoid sudden temperature changes. Flatware may also leave marks on your dishes over time, so consider using a mild abrasive cleaner to minimise their appearance.

Design: Choose a style that suits your taste and occasion, e.g. rustic, modern, elegant

When it comes to choosing a dinnerware set, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, think about the material. Stoneware and earthenware are more casual, while bone china and porcelain are more formal. Melamine is a good option for outdoor use as it's shatterproof and break-resistant.

Next, consider the style. If you're looking for something rustic, opt for a set with an earthy tone or textured finish. For a modern look, choose sleek, simple designs with clean lines. Elegant dinnerware often features gold detailing or fine patterns.

• Rustic: The Staub Ceramic Dinnerware Set has a homey, organic design. The Thyme & Table Dinnerware Set in Black Onyx features a textured exterior and a reactive glaze.
• Modern: The Jono Pandolfi Coupe 4-Piece Place Setting has a clean, modern design and is handmade in America. The Hawkins New York Essential Stoneware Dinnerware Set features concentric circles and comes in fun, modern colors.
• Elegant: The Villeroy & Boch Artesano 4-Piece Place Setting is a beautiful, luxe-looking set made in Germany. The Dansk Cafe Blanc Dinnerware Set is a simple yet elegant porcelain set with thin blue lines.

Contents: Check what's included in the set, e.g. number of place settings, types of plates and bowls

When purchasing an estate dinnerware set, it is important to consider the number of place settings included, as well as the types and quantities of plates and bowls. Here are some options:

Option 1:

This estate dinnerware set includes 12 place settings, with each setting comprising a dinner plate, a salad plate, a soup bowl, a fruit bowl, a tea cup, and a tea saucer. This set is ideal for those who entertain frequently or have a large family, as it offers a complete dining experience for up to 12 guests.

Option 2:

For a smaller gathering or a more intimate dinner setting, consider this estate dinnerware set that provides six place settings. Each setting includes a dinner plate, a salad plate, a bread plate, a soup plate, a tea cup, and a saucer. The set's smaller size makes it perfect for a cosy dinner with friends or family, while still offering a variety of plates and bowls for a well-presented meal.

Option 3:

If you're looking for a more comprehensive set, this estate dinnerware collection offers 12 place settings with an expanded range of plates and bowls. Each setting consists of a dinner plate, a salad plate, a soup bowl, a fruit bowl, a bread plate, a tea cup, and a saucer. The additional bread plate and fruit bowl in this set elevate the dining experience, making it perfect for those who enjoy a full-course meal with all the trimmings.

Option 4:

For those who prefer a more streamlined approach to dining, this estate dinnerware set provides six place settings with a simplified selection of plates and bowls. Each setting includes a dinner plate, a salad plate, a soup bowl, and a tea cup with a saucer. While this set may not offer the same variety as others, it covers all the basics for a functional and elegant dining experience.

Option 5:

If you're seeking an estate dinnerware set that blends tradition with a modern touch, consider this collection. It offers 12 place settings, with each setting featuring a dinner plate, a square luncheon plate, a salad plate, a bread plate, a tea cup, and a tea saucer. The inclusion of square luncheon plates adds a unique twist to the traditional dinnerware set, making it perfect for those who appreciate a blend of classic and contemporary styles.

Price: Dinnerware sets vary in price, from affordable to premium

Dinnerware sets can vary in price, ranging from affordable to premium. While some sets are ideal for those on a budget, others are more expensive, heirloom pieces.

For instance, the Corelle Winter Frost Dinnerware Set is a budget-friendly option, often costing under $50 for a 12 to 18-piece set. Similarly, the Gibson Round Stoneware 16-piece Dinnerware Set is a durable and elegant option for a family dinner, usually priced at around $50.

On the other hand, handcrafted and artisanal dinnerware sets tend to be pricier. The Heath Ceramics Rim Line, an heirloom stoneware set, can cost $130 for a three-piece place setting and $210 for a five-piece place setting. Similarly, the East Fork 7-piece You're-All-Set Set, handcrafted in North Carolina, is priced at $145 for a five-piece set and $195 for a seven-piece set.

Pre-owned china sets can also be quite expensive. For example, a 99-piece Elite Limoges dinnerware set can cost nearly $10,000, while a 62-piece Spode dinnerware set is priced at $1,875.

The price of a dinnerware set depends on various factors, including the materials used, craftsmanship, brand, and number of pieces included. While some materials like porcelain and stoneware are typically more affordable, fine bone china and handcrafted pottery can be more expensive. Additionally, sets with intricate designs, unique glazes, or gold or silver accents tend to be priced higher.

When purchasing a dinnerware set, it's essential to consider your budget and how you plan to use it. If you're looking for everyday use, durability and chip-resistance are crucial, and you may want to opt for more affordable options. On the other hand, if you're seeking a special occasion set or investing in heirloom-quality pieces, you may be willing to spend more on craftsmanship, unique designs, and premium materials.

Frequently asked questions