Bone china is more than just a dinnerware material; it's an embodiment of elegance, delicacy, and craftsmanship. With its exquisite appearance and remarkable durability, bone china has become a staple in sophisticated households and fine dining establishments.
Bone china is a type of porcelain characterized by its distinctive white color, translucent quality, and delicate appearance. It's composed of three main materials: china clay (kaolin), bone ash, and feldspathic material. The inclusion of bone ash, usually derived from cattle bones, is what sets bone china apart from traditional porcelain or ceramic. This addition lends bone china its unique properties, such as its thinness, translucency, and strength.
How to identify real Bone China?
Translucency: The most defining characteristic of bone china is its semi-translucent nature. When held against light, you'll notice a soft glow that enhances the elegance of any setting.
Why choose Bone China?
Durability: Despite its delicate appearance, bone china is surprisingly durable. The incorporation of bone ash gives it increased strength compared to other materials
Lightweight: Bone china is notably lightweight, which makes it comfortable to handle and perfect for fine dining.
Elegance: Its delicate beauty and fine detailing make bone china a popular choice for special occasions and formal gatherings.
Caring for Your Bone China Products:
Maintaining the splendor of your bone china items requires some special attention and care. Follow these guidelines to ensure they remain exquisite for years to come:
Hand Wash: While some bone china pieces may be labeled as dishwasher-safe, it's best to hand wash them. Use mild, non-abrasive dishwashing liquid and a soft cloth or sponge. Immersing the items in warm water before cleaning will effectively eliminate the majority of stains or stubborn particles. Minor blemishes resulting from metal deposits, especially those from cutlery, can be eliminated using tooth powder.
Avoid Abrasives: Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or harsh chemicals on your bone china. These can damage the delicate glaze and decorations.
Temperature Matters: Extreme temperature changes can cause bone china to crack or chip. Avoid placing bone china in direct contact with very hot water or exposing it to rapid temperature shifts. Plates and serving dishes have the option to be pre-warmed before use using an oven or a warming trolley, with a temperature not exceeding 100°F or Gas Mark 3.
Handling: When using bone china, handle it with care. Avoid banging it against hard surfaces or stacking it too tightly, as this can lead to chipping.
Microwave Use: While some bone china may be labeled microwave-safe, it's advisable to use caution. Microwave-safe bone china should be used on low power settings and for short durations to prevent overheating. Tableware with gold or platinum trim must not be used in a Microwave.
Display Considerations: When displaying your bone china, keep it away from direct sunlight, which can cause colors to fade over time.
Storage: When storing bone china, place a soft cloth or paper towel between each piece to prevent them from rubbing against each other and potentially causing scratches.Avoid storing or hanging cups from cup hooks, or stacking them, as this can potentially weaken the handles.
Bone china is a testament to the artistry and skill of craftsmen who create these exquisite pieces. Its elegant appearance and durability make it a prized possession for many households. By treating your bone china with the care it deserves, you can ensure that its beauty endures for generations, enhancing your dining experiences and creating a lasting legacy of refinement.
You can shop timeless fine bone china pieces from British Luxury brand Halcyon Days