Are Your China Sets Antique, Vintage, or New?

China dinnerware has been around for centuries. It continues to be very popular. Many new brides receive china sets as gifts. China manufacturers are in various parts of the world. It can be fun and challenging to search for particular patterns of china when you shop at consignment and vintage shops. There are countless manufacturers and patterns. You may wonder what the difference is between china sets that are antique, vintage, and new.

Antique China

Many people wonder whether the china they see is antique. Generally, for an item to be considered antique, it must be at least 50 years old. Some china has been made for centuries, so it is not uncommon to own antique china. In some cases, china may have been passed down through your family and may have been owned by a great-grandmother or distant family members. Keep in mind that just because a piece looks old does not necessarily mean that it is an antique.

Vintage China

Vintage china is china that is old, but not old enough to be considered antique. China became extremely popular in the early to mid-1900s. There are many styles and manufacturers, ranging from low to high quality. Some of the most popular brands include Royal Doulton, Mikasa, Villeroy & Boch, Wedgwood, Noritake, Lenox, Spode, and Fitz & Floyd among others. There are many other manufacturers that may not be as well-known. Many of these manufacturers have been in business for more than a century, and some are still in existence today.

New China

Sometimes, it can be difficult to determine whether china is new or old. New china could be made to look vintage and sometimes has similar patterns to original pieces. You will need to inspect the dishes more closely to see whether it is new. At times, a consignment shop may have new or almost new pieces of china or china sets available. As with all tableware, you will want to inspect the pieces for quality and condition. Regardless of age, the pieces should be sturdy and free from cracks or chips.

Identify the Markings

China has markings on the back, which are also called backstamps. China manufacturers have been using markings for hundreds of years. These backstamps indicate quite a bit of information. Often, the markings provide a date that the piece was made, along with where it was made and the name of the company that made it. These marks can be challenging to decipher. It is helpful to look them up online or in a book that identifies china. It is very helpful to learn the markings and makers so you can determine the approximate age of a piece of china.

Search For Similar Pieces

One way to identify china is by searching for similar pieces online. Try to find the name of the pattern or put a description into a search engine to start the process. Another way to search is to type in the markings from the back. These identifying marks may point you in the right direction for the maker, as well as the year and place of manufacture.

Dishfunctional is a leading retail store in Malvern. We have been curating amazing pieces since 1999. Visit us at Lincoln Court Shopping Center, 225 Lancaster Avenue, Malvern, PA, 19355, call us at (484) 328-8401, contact us online, or email us now at dishfun1@gmail.com.