More About Antique Ironstone—What Are White Ironstone Plates?
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Antique collectors and enthusiasts might have already heard of Ironstone plates or might even have them in their own collections. Ironstone was patented by Charles James Mason of Staffordshire, England, in 1813. These plates can be traced back to the early 1800′s when white glazed varieties were produced and exported to countries like Australia, Europe and the United States. There are also colorful varieties of these plates which were sold throughout England.
British potters started to produce snowy-white ironstone pieces in 1830′s. These were mainly sold to American families in rural areas and were called White Ironstone.
White Ironstone dinnerware was more durable than porcelain and harder than earthenware. Being superior in durability, strength and design, they quickly gained popularity during the 1800′s. It was also more affordable.
Early White Ironstone was less expensive than more delicate porcelain and sought after by rural American families. As time passed they became more and more valuable. Today, White Ironstone is an exclusive item for antique plate collectors. Pieces can cost between $200 and $350 depending on the rarity, pattern, maker and quality. A chip-free White Ironstone piece is considered rare and often more expensive.
More Antique Ironstone Resources
Like any antique piece, White Ironstone needs special care. Dust regularly and handwash with a mild detergent if necessary. If you use your white ironstone dinnerware at meals, be careful when using knives. Knives can cause unnecessary marks to your plates which will reduce their value and create unnecessary wear and tear. If possible, avoid knives when using your white ironstone dinnerware.
Did you know that antique collectors can tell when an ironstone piece was produced by the design? The earliest pieces of White Ironstone, produced from 1830′s to 1840′s, have paneled hexagonal or octagonal shape designs. Those produced during 1860′s were rounded with defined ornamental designs. After the 1880′s, Ironstone pieces were being produced with simple patterns and shapes– mostly round and plain.
When collecting ironstone, it is important to gather as much information as possible. This will help you with every aspect of white ironstone plate collecting from buying to taking care of your antique ironstone.
