Difference between Porcelain and Bone China If you are in the market for new dishes, you may be wondering about the difference between porcelain and bone china. Both are popular materials for dinnerware, but they have some notable differences that may affect which material is best for you. Let's take a closer look at the real differences between porcelain and bone china. What is Porcelain? Porcelain is a type of ceramic that is made from a mixture of materials, including kaolin, feldspar, and quartz. It is fired at high temperatures, which makes it strong and durable. Porcelain is known for its translucent appearance, which allows light to pass through the material. This material is often used for formal occasions and is a popular choice for dinnerware sets. What is Bone China? Bone china is a type of porcelain that is made with a mixture of clay, feldspar, and bone ash. The addition of bone ash gives this material a unique appearance and translucency that is different from traditional porcelain. Bone china is also known for its strength and durability, making it a popular choice for dinnerware. The Real Differences While porcelain and bone china may seem similar, there are some key differences between the two materials. Here are some of the real differences between porcelain and bone china: 1. Composition: The main difference between porcelain and bone china is their composition. Porcelain is made from a mixture of materials, while bone china is made with the addition of bone ash. 2. Translucency: Bone china is more translucent than traditional porcelain, allowing more light to pass through the material. This gives bone china a unique appearance that is different from porcelain. 3. Durability: Both materials are known for their strength and durability, but bone china is considered to be more resilient than porcelain. This is due to the addition of bone ash, which makes the material more resistant to chipping and cracking. 4. Price: Bone china is typically more expensive than traditional porcelain due to the addition of bone ash and its unique appearance. Finding the Right Dinnerware for You When it comes to choosing between porcelain and bone china, there is no right or wrong answer. The best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a material that is strong and durable, both porcelain and bone china are excellent options. However, if you want a material that is more translucent and has a unique appearance, bone china may be the way to go. Industry Websites If you are interested in learning more about the porcelain and bone china industry, here are some websites you may find helpful: 1. The Porcelain and Pottery Marks website - This website provides information on porcelain and pottery marks from all over the world, including history, identification, and value. 2. The China and Glass Industry website - This site provides news and information about the china and glass industry, including new products, trends, and events. 3. The National China and Glass Collectors Association - This organization promotes interest in the collection and preservation of antique and vintage china, glass, and pottery. They offer resources, events, and a community for collectors.
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