How do you identify antique ironstone?

How to Identify Ironstone. If you’re lucky, it will be labeled as ironstone in the hallmark, usually stamped on the bottom of a piece. It might also say “stoneware”. Many pieces, though, are not marked specifically as ironstone or they aren’t marked at all.

Is English ironstone valuable?

Antique English Ironstone Pottery & Values … Royal Patent Ironstone used by the George Jones & Sons pottery (1873-1907) on its china, including the chocolate pot (seen in the center of the previous photo). In perfect condition, I would value it at about $100.

How much is ironstone pottery worth?

There are hundreds of known ironstone makers, but not all pieces bear a manufacturer’s mark. Heft and luster are solid indicators of authenticity. Ranging in prices from $12 to $250 for early examples, trays and platters are a favorite among collectors for both their functionality and decorative appeal.

What is English ironstone?

What Is Ironstone? Ironstone is not porcelain; it’s porous earthenware, made of clay mixed with feldspar. Patented in 1813 by Charles James Mason in Staffordshire, England, it was an immediate success, and ironstone blanks were decorated with transfer patterns or hand painting to imitate Chinese porcelain.

What is special about ironstone?

There is no iron in ironstone; its name is derived from its notable strength and durability. Ironstone in Britain’s Staffordshire potteries was closely associated with the company founded by Charles James Mason following his patent of 1813, with the name subsequently becoming generic.

What does ironstone look like?

Description. Freshly cleaved ironstone is usually grey. The brown external appearance is due to oxidation of its surface. Ironstone, being a sedimentary rock is not always homogeneous, and can be found in a red and black banded form called tiger iron, sometimes used for jewelry purposes.

When did they stop making ironstone?

Plain white ironstone ware was widely marketed in the United States until the end of the 19th century. Notable 19th-century ironstone manufacturers in the United States include: Empire Pottery.

What is the difference between ironstone and stoneware?

Ironstone is stoneware that has been produced to feature a thinner and more refined appearance. It often mimics the look of porcelain but contains the same durability and opaqueness as traditional stoneware.

How do I identify my pottery makers mark?

Some common marks include the studio where the piece was made, the potter who crafted the piece, and the signature of the artist who decorated it. A form number and identification of the clay type may also be included. Reference books can help you identify unfamiliar marks.

Can ironstone go in the dishwasher?

I usually don’t buy really new ironstone, but I do like some of the vintage stuff (1970’s – 80’s era), because it’s dishwasher safe and easier to find in large sets. For that reason, I love using those pieces for my everyday dishes.

How do you identify ironstone dishes?

Ironstone is no lightweight, it will feel heavier than your typical china and porcelain. *Flick the piece with your finger, if it’s ironstone it should make a ringing sound. So there you have it, it’s like Ironstone 101!

Where are ironstone Mason’s marks made?

These pieces with their facsimiles of old marks were made in China for the antique reproduction wholesale trade. The crown mark is loosely similar to original Mason’s ironstone marks. Words within the draped cloth on the original are usually “Patent Ironstone China” or sometimes “Improved Ironstone China.”

What does antique English ironstone look like?

True antique English ironstone is quite heavy, similar to other pieces of stoneware but with a smooth protective glaze. In color, it tends to have a blueish or gray cast, as opposed to much American ironstone (and newer English ironstone), which has a creamier, almost yellow cast.

Who invented ironstone?

Many attribute the creation of ironstone to Mason’s pottery in Staffordshire, England. But in actual fact, they merely patented the term Ironstone China in 1813. Thirteen years prior the Turner pottery (1756-1829), also of Staffordshire, developed the recipe and process for manufacturing it.

What does the Crown Mark mean on a Mason’s ironstone?

The crown mark is loosely similar to original Mason’s ironstone marks. Words within the draped cloth on the original are usually “Patent Ironstone China” or sometimes “Improved Ironstone China.”