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How to Identify Knowles Dinnerware

Most people would be surprised to learn that hidden in that pile of junk in the basement or attic could be a trove of antiques and valuables just waiting to be discovered. One of the most common found items is china. China ranges in quality and value, so before running off to your local auction you will want to check its authenticity. In the case of Knowles china, that is simple to do.

Instructions

- 1
  Choose the largest piece of dinnerware you have. Large pieces will be more apt to carry a clear maker's mark.
- 2
  Turn the plate over. Identifiable markings are usually located in the center of the underside of the plate.
- 3
  Look for one of the markings that will identify your china as Knowles. For the earliest pieces (1901 to 1904), the mark will either be the maker's initials "E.M.K." underlined and underneath the initials will be read "C. CO." or the more commonly used stamp of a vase decorated with diamond hash marks that reads "Semi Vitreous" or "Vitreous" that adorned most Knowles china from 1901 to 1948.
- 4
  Check for a stamp of a ship, which was another stamp commonly used in the 1930s. Wording around the ship will read "The Edwin M. Knowles China." Under the ship will be a series of numbers that will tell you the month and year the china was made.
- 5
  Take your china to an experienced appraiser to obtain written proof of authenticity and an appraisal.

Antiques