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Square Dinnerware Sets

Fine China Dinnerware

Every distinguished home should have a set of fine china dinnerware.  The distinctive style of fine china dinnerware is known as a type of art form from ancient Chinese dynasties, dating as far back as over 9,000 years ago. 

Nowadays it serves  the purpose of being one of the most valuable gifts during special occasions such as weddings and anniversaries. 

When you want to do something extraordinary for your dinner guests, serve them a delicious meal on your beautiful fine china dinnerware set.

Fine china dinnerware can be separated into two major types.  The first type is porcelain which is the name used interchangeably for china.  Porcelain, typically ivory colored, has many amazing qualities including durability and being resistant to bacteria.  Furthermore, porcelain can be cleaned in the dishwasher and is microwavable safe.  

As the quality of porcelain fine china dinnerware increases, the thinner it becomes and it turns into a more translucent piece.  But here's the thing - just as fine china can be thin, this in no way signifies that is brittle.  As a matter of fact, the higher the quality of porcelain the more resistant it is to chipping.

The second type of fine china dinnerware is known as bone china.  Now the materials used to make bone china dinnerware are very closely related to porcelain.  The main difference is that bone china is also made up of bone ash.  Bone ash is what gives each piece a more translucent look and clearer ceramic feel while at the same time maintaining it durability.  Bone fine china dinnerware is whiter than porcelain which is a good way to distinguish between the two.

When looking at fine china dinnerware, the most important fact to be mindful of is durability especially if you are interested in discount dinnerware.  Find out how strong and tough the materials are because there is nothing worse than falling in love with a piece of dinnerware that can be easily chipped, cracked or broken into pieces.  The more durable the dinnerware set, the better the value for your money. 

On top of that, be careful of imitation fine china being passed off as the real thing.  There are many stores who label stoneware or regular porcelain as fine china.  A good way to check the authenticity is to look at the translucency of the piece. 

Hold the dinnerware up to the light and check to see if it is translucent.  Authentic fine china is also comprised of clay that aides in making it more translucent.  The same goes for looking at antique dinnerware.  Although antique pieces are extremely unique, translucency is a key consideration.

The vast majority of china is made by machine.  There are a few rare pieces that are handmade.  Most have a circular shape and the more expensive pieces may be square or hexagon shaped.  Because there are hundreds of patterns in all sorts of colors, you are in control of what piece is best suited to your personality.  Enjoy life's treasured dining moments with stunning fine china dinnerware.  You'll be glad you did.