Casual Dinnerware Choices
From paper plates to fine china, dinnerware is as unique as the food we cook. Casual dinnerware sets are available in various materials and price ranges. Most casual dinnerware is now virtually unbreakable, and many artists, chefs and designers have added their own personal flair to dinnerware to make it match almost any decor.
Porcelain is made from clay. It can be used to make everything from dinnerware to dental work. Once complete porcelain pieces are fired to hardness and are available in a variety of colors but the most popular color is white. It is great for dinnerware as it is strong and break-resistant. It is also favored for its translucence. Because of its fine quality, porcelain can be more expensive than other casual dinnerware and is often considered fine dinnerware.
Stoneware is also made from clay, but is basically manmade stone. It doesn’t require as much heat to fire as porcelain does. It generally comes in a gray or brown color because of impurities in the clay. Glaze can be applied to stoneware to give it a shiny appearance. Due to its strength, stoneware can last a very long time given proper care. Stoneware is great for everyday dining and is dishwasher safe.