What Is Ironstone China?

History

• Ironstone china was first produced by Charles James Mason in Staffordshire, England in 1813. The china began to be widely exported during the 1840s.

Colors

• Ironstone china is usually predominantly white and sometimes features decorative floral, fruit and scroll patterns in a solid color such as blue, black, red or orange. Rare ornate pieces with several colors are also sometimes seen.

Characteristics

• Ironstone china is a heavy type of earthenware porcelain. Octagonal shaped dishes were very popular during the nineteenth century and are a common feature of ironstone.

Manufacturers

• Original ironstone china produced by Charles James Mason bares a mark that reads "Mason's Patent Ironstone China" above a picture of a crown.

Value

• The value of ironstone china is based upon the condition and rarity of the piece. While some pieces are worth $100 or less, some are worth up to $1500.