Dinnerware Set: Hand-Tooled Tableware

The HiEnd Accents Savannah 5-piece ceramic dinnerware set is a great option for those who want to set the perfect table. The set includes a serving platter, a serving bowl, a spoon rest, and a salt and pepper shaker set. The elegant set features a swirling floral pattern with a damask flair, adding a classic touch to your table setting. The dinnerware is made from quality stoneware ceramic, ensuring durability and style. With its vibrant look and elegant design, the HiEnd Accents Savannah set is sure to elevate any dining experience.

Place Settings: The number of place settings in a dinnerware set can vary, with some sets offering service for four, while others provide service for six or more

When shopping for a dinnerware set, it's important to consider the number of place settings you'll need. This will depend on the size of your household and how often you entertain guests. A set typically includes a dinner plate, a salad/dessert plate, and a cereal bowl, with some also offering mugs or teacups.

For a couple or a single person, eight place settings will provide several days' worth of use, while a larger family may use an entire set in one day. If you're looking to host dinner parties, it's a good idea to have extra place settings on hand.

Most dinnerware sets come with four or six place settings, but you can also find options for larger groups. A four-piece place setting typically includes a dinner plate, a cup, a saucer, and a salad plate, while a five-piece setting adds a bread-and-butter plate or soup bowl. If you're looking for something more substantial, English dinnerware firms often offer a seven-piece place setting that includes a dinner plate, a salad plate, a bread-and-butter plate, a cup, a saucer, and either a soup bowl with a stand or a soup cup and saucer.

When choosing the number of place settings, consider your storage space as well. If you have limited cabinet space, look for thinner or more stackable options, or consider investing in shelf risers to maximize your storage area.

Materials: Dinnerware sets can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, stoneware, and glass

Dinnerware sets are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique qualities, features, price points, and drawbacks. Here are some of the most common materials used:

Ceramic

Ceramic dinnerware is a broad category that includes stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware. It is often less expensive than other types of dinnerware and can be glazed and fired to create a variety of finishes. However, it is not as durable or strong as some other materials and is prone to chipping. Ceramic dinnerware is typically dishwasher and microwave safe, but it is important to check with the manufacturer first.

Stoneware

Stoneware is a type of ceramic dinnerware that is fired at a higher temperature, making it more durable than earthenware. It usually has a vitreous material added to it for strength, and its body is thicker and more opaque than finer materials like porcelain and China. Stoneware is commonly used in casual, everyday place settings and is versatile, microwave, dishwasher, oven, and freezer-safe. However, it should not be exposed to sudden or extreme temperature changes. Some popular brands that offer stoneware dinnerware include Pfaltzgraff, Dansk (Lenox), and Fiesta (Homer Laughlin).

Porcelain

Porcelain is a type of dinnerware made from fine-particle clay that is fired at a high temperature, making it extremely durable and nonporous. This process allows the body to be thinner and more delicately constructed, giving it a translucent appearance. Porcelain dinnerware often has an upscale look, making it suitable for formal dining occasions, but it can also be used daily. Some popular brands that offer porcelain dinnerware include Lenox, Noritake, and Villeroy & Boch.

Bone China

Bone China is a type of porcelain that is made by combining bone ash with porcelain clay and firing it at a slightly lower temperature. This results in a material that is lightweight, delicate, and translucent with a milky appearance. Despite its fragile presentation, bone china is the strongest and most durable ceramic dinnerware. It is typically dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe, making it suitable for daily use or formal dining occasions. Some popular brands that offer bone china dinnerware include Royal Doulton, Wedgewood, and Mikasa.

Glass

Glass dinnerware, such as the well-known brand Corelle, is made from vitrified glass, which is fired at an ultra-high temperature to make it nonporous and extremely durable. Glass dinnerware is safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave and is ideal for children and outdoor use. However, it is not suitable for the oven or microwave and should not be heated with food in it.

Durability: Some dinnerware sets are more durable and resistant to chipping, scratching, and staining than others

When it comes to durability, some dinnerware sets are more resistant to chipping, scratching, and staining than others. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a durable set:

Material

Stoneware, porcelain, bone china, and glass are some of the most common materials used for dinnerware. Stoneware is known for its durability and resistance to chipping and scratching. Porcelain, or china, is a popular choice as it strikes a balance between durability, weight, and price. Bone china, though delicate in appearance, is surprisingly durable and lightweight. Laminated glass, such as Corelle's Vitrelle, is an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor use as it is resistant to breaking, chipping, scratching, and staining.

Weight and Thickness

Heavier and thicker dinnerware sets, such as those made of stoneware or porcelain, tend to be more durable. Thicker dinnerware is less likely to chip or break if dropped or knocked over. However, thicker dinnerware can also be more cumbersome to carry and store.

Glaze

A high-quality glaze can help protect dinnerware from scratches and stains. Look for dinnerware with a smooth, even glaze that covers the entire surface of the dish. Some glazes may also provide additional benefits, such as a non-porous surface that is resistant to staining.

Chip and Scratch Resistance

Chip and scratch resistance are important factors to consider when choosing a durable dinnerware set. Look for dinnerware that is specifically marketed as chip and scratch resistant. Some materials, such as laminated glass and stoneware, are naturally more resistant to chipping and scratching.

Dishwasher and Microwave Safe

If you plan on using your dinnerware in the dishwasher or microwave, it is important to choose a set that is safe for these appliances. Some materials, such as bone china and stoneware, may not be dishwasher or microwave safe, so always check the care instructions before purchasing.

Brand Reputation

Consider purchasing dinnerware from a reputable brand with a history of producing durable products. Corelle, for example, is known for its chip-resistant and break-resistant dinnerware. Reading reviews from other customers can also give you a good idea of the durability of a particular set.

Price

In general, more expensive dinnerware sets are likely to be of higher quality and more durable. However, this is not always the case, as some affordable options may also offer excellent durability. It is important to consider your budget and weigh it against the features and benefits of each set.

Microwave and Dishwasher Safe: Many dinnerware sets are designed to be safe for use in the microwave and dishwasher, making them more convenient for everyday use

Dinnerware sets are an essential part of any home, and when shopping for a new set, it's important to consider not only the style and design but also the functionality and durability of the pieces. Many dinnerware sets these days are designed with convenience and ease of use in mind, and it's becoming increasingly common to find sets that are safe for use in both the microwave and dishwasher. This is especially important for those who lead busy lives and don't have the time to hand-wash their dishes or transfer leftovers to a microwave-safe container.

Microwave and dishwasher-safe dinnerware sets are a great option for everyday use, and there are a variety of materials to choose from, each with its own unique benefits. Stoneware, for example, offers a rustic, earthy aesthetic and is known for its durability and thickness. Porcelain, on the other hand, strikes a balance between durability and weight, making it a popular choice for both daily use and formal dinner parties. For those who prioritise durability above all else, laminated glass, such as Corelle's Vitrelle range, is an excellent option. This material is resistant to breaking, chipping, scratching and staining, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

When choosing a microwave and dishwasher-safe dinnerware set, it's important to consider the number of place settings required, the types of dishes included, and the overall durability of the set. For larger households, it's advisable to opt for a set with more place settings to account for any broken or chipped pieces. It's also worth checking the care instructions, as some sets with metallic banding may not be microwave-safe, and more delicate materials may not be suitable for the dishwasher.

• Gibson Home Oslo 16-piece porcelain dinnerware set in white with a black rim
• Gibson Home Zen Buffet 30-piece porcelain dinnerware set in white, scratch and chip-resistant
• Gibson Soho Lounge 18-piece matte dinnerware set in teal, service for 6
• Gibson Elite Althea 16-piece reactive dinnerware set in teal, service for 4
• Siterra Artist's Blend 16-piece stoneware dinnerware set with a rustic speckled design
• Lenox Butterfly Meadow 18-piece porcelain dinnerware set with butterfly and flower designs, service for 6
• Certified International Gilded Rooster 16-piece dinnerware set in white with rooster designs, service for 4
• Fable Base Dinnerware Set - a modern, minimalist set made from durable stoneware, available in a range of muted colours
• Williams Sonoma Apilco Tradition Blue-Banded Porcelain Dinnerware Set - classic white dishes with blue bands, available in sets of 5, 16 and 20 pieces

Design and Aesthetics: Dinnerware sets come in a variety of designs and aesthetics, ranging from classic and elegant to modern and colourful

Dinnerware sets come in a variety of designs and aesthetics, ranging from classic and elegant to modern and colourful.

Classic and elegant dinnerware sets often feature timeless designs that will never go out of style. These sets typically have simple and refined aesthetics, such as all-white sets or those with subtle patterns or colours. Classic dinnerware sets are usually made from materials like porcelain, bone china, or stoneware, giving them a sophisticated and elegant look.

On the other hand, modern and colourful dinnerware sets offer a wide range of styles, from sleek and minimalist designs to bold and vibrant options. These sets often feature contemporary shapes, such as square plates and bowls, or unique glazes and finishes that give them a modern aesthetic. Modern dinnerware sets can be made from various materials, including porcelain, stoneware, and even glass, offering a wide range of choices for consumers.

For those who prefer a more rustic or traditional look, there are dinnerware sets that resemble hand-thrown pottery, with organic shapes, textured finishes, and earthy colours. These sets often have a more casual and relaxed aesthetic, perfect for everyday use.

Additionally, for those who want to make a statement with their dinnerware, there are sets with unique details such as gold rims, speckled glazes, or reactive glazes that make each piece one-of-a-kind. These sets can add a touch of luxury or playfulness to any table setting.

Ultimately, the design and aesthetic of a dinnerware set are a matter of personal preference, and consumers can choose from a wide range of options to find the perfect set that reflects their style and personality.

Frequently asked questions