Home >> Collecting >> Other Collecting

How to Identify Wedgwood

It is important to know the proper spelling for "Wedgewood'' china is actually Wedgwood without the letter "e'' after the letter "g.'' This is often important when identifying a piece's authenticity. Josiah Wedgwood began manufacturing china in England in 1759. Wedgwood china is a very beautiful and much-desired item that is famous for its high quality and craftsmanship. Identifying Wedgwood is relatively simple because it has always been clearly marked.

Instructions

Methods
- 1
  Look for a Wedgwood back stamp on the piece. All Wedgwood is marked. Keep in mind there have been many different Wedgwood patterns and stamps over the past 250 years. Knowing the date will also help determine the value of the piece. A back stamp is the name, mark or signature of the manufacturer, and is usually located on the bottom of the piece. Nearly all Wedgwood is marked with a signature. According to the Ebay guide to Wedgwood buying: "The true Wedgwood mark is either printed or embossed "Wedgwood England", "Wedgwood Made In England", "Wedgwood of Etruria &Barlaston" and/or an urn with a Wedgwood underneath it...rarely has any picture other than an urn been depicted.''
- 2
  Do some research to verify the piece's authenticity and the year it was made. Thepotteries.org website (see resources) is an example of where to find some publications and services that will help in your pottery research.
- 3
  Use caution to make sure you are getting the real thing. Because of Wedgwood popularity, it has often been reproduced. Some antique pieces of Wedgwood are actually reproductions. If someone is asking for a high price for an antique item, ask for some verification.
- 4
  Be aware if the item is not marked, it is not Wedgwood unless the mark has faded over a very long time. Ask for verification if there is no mark. Look out for a mark with the spelling "Wedgewood.'' It is not the real thing unless it is spelled "Wedgwood.''

Other Collecting