It was developed in the 19th century by potters in Staffordshire, England, as a cheaper, mass-produced alternative for porcelain. There is no iron in ironstone; its name is derived from its notable strength and durability.

How do you identify antique ironstone?

How to Identify Ironstone. If youre 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 arent marked at all.

Is ironstone still produced?

Masons insured continuity of its name and product when it joined the Wedgwood Group in 1973. Masons Ironstone Ltd. continues to produce finely decorated porcelain. Replacements carries an extensive array of patterns including the ever popular Vista, Denmark Blue, Christmas Village, and Regency-Plantation Colonial.

What is the difference between ironstone and china?

Ironstone is not porcelain; its porous earthenware, made of clay mixed with feldspar. Called graniteware, stoneware, pearl china or feldspar china, these pieces are all considered ironstone. In the 1870s and 1880s, American potters began to manufacture their own white ware, under the name graniteware.

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.