Franciscan Dinnerware Set: Timeless Tableware

Franciscan dinnerware sets are highly sought-after collectibles, with the Apple and Desert Rose patterns in continuous production since the 1940s. First produced in California, the Franciscan dinnerware line was introduced by Gladding-McBean of Southern California and marketed under the Franciscan Pottery brand, later changed to Franciscan Ware. The Franciscan Desert Rose 20-piece dinnerware set is one of the most popular patterns in American history, with its hand-painted pink roses, golden centres, and soft green leaves set against a cream background. The set is also microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe.

Franciscan Desert Rose

In 1962, Franciscan became part of the International Pipe and Ceramics Corporation, known as Interpace. Interpace sold Franciscan to Josiah Wedgwood & Sons, LTD of England in 1979, and the company was renamed Franciscan Ceramics. In 1984, Franciscan Ware production moved from California to England, and in 2000, it was moved again to other countries.

The original Franciscan Desert Rose dinnerware made in California can be identified by its scalloped edges and pronounced raised relief. These pieces are typically the most desirable and expensive due to their age, detail, and quality. Later productions in England and other countries feature less pronounced relief and rounded edges, with paint that may be darker or less carefully applied.

Franciscan Ware

The Franciscan Ware Apple pattern, which features red apples and green leaves, and the Desert Rose pattern are the only continuously produced Franciscan patterns.

Franciscan Pottery

Other popular patterns include Apple, introduced in 1940, and Starburst, which features a mid-century modern style. Franciscan Pottery is also known for its durability, with pieces being microwave, freezer, and dishwasher-safe. Today, Franciscan dinnerware is produced in various countries and continues to be a prized collectible, especially the American-made pieces produced before 1984.

Franciscan Apple

Franciscan dinnerware is named in honour of the mission-founding priests of colonial California and is known for its durability and timeless style. The Franciscan Apple range is one of the most popular dinnerware patterns in American history and has been in continuous production since its launch, along with the Desert Rose pattern introduced in 1941. Today, Franciscan dinnerware is produced in various countries and can be safely used in the dishwasher, microwave, and freezer.

A 5-piece place-setting in the Franciscan Apple range consists of a 10 3/4-inch dinner plate, an 8-inch salad plate, a 6-inch soup/cereal bowl, and a 6-ounce cup with a 5-inch saucer. The set is dishwasher-, microwave-, and freezer-safe. This dinnerware set is a great choice for those who appreciate hand-painted china and apple motifs.

Franciscan Ivy

Franciscan Ware Ivy is a dinnerware set produced from 1948 to 2003. The set features a creamy white and green design, with hand-painted ivy leaves. The range includes dinner plates, luncheon plates, salad plates, bread plates, bowls, cups, saucers, teapots, and serving dishes.

The Franciscan Ivy range can be purchased as a complete 21-piece set for four people, or as individual items. The individual items are available in varying quantities, ranging from sets of two to nine.

Other items in the Franciscan Ivy range include bowls, such as soup bowls, cereal bowls, and serving bowls, which are available in various sizes. Cups and saucers are also available, often sold as a set, with some listings offering multiple sets. The Franciscan Ivy range also includes serving dishes, such as platters, trays, and casserole dishes, as well as salt and pepper shakers, sugar bowls, and creamers.

Some listings offer a combination of different items within the Franciscan Ivy range, allowing buyers to purchase a partial set. These combination listings typically include a variety of plates, bowls, and serving dishes.

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