What is the difference between stoneware and ceramics?

Choosing tableware is a personal choice, and it’s a decision generally made based on your style and what works for your lifestyle. Tableware needs to work hard for your needs, whether entertaining regularly, feeding the family, or for day-to-day use like putting it in the microwave or dishwasher.

So, when it comes to stoneware or ceramic tableware, we’ve discussed the differences below:

 The main difference worth noting between stoneware and ceramic is the firing temperatures and properties of each. Stoneware is made at a very high firing temperature while other ceramics are made at relatively low temperatures. The high firing temperature of stoneware makes it both strong and durable. It is also oven safe after firing and suitable for use in a microwave and dishwasher.

PROPERTIES OF STONEWARE

1. Stoneware production creates a one-of-a-kind piece. Each piece is hand finished, so no two pieces of Stoneware look or feel exactly the same. This is great if you want to have a rustic, handmade look for your tableware and it makes a nice gift.
2. As well as being more unique, stoneware has heat retaining properties and more even heat distribution than other ceramics.
3. Stoneware is usually thicker in appearance and more opaque than other ceramics, and like its name, has a stone-like appearance and density. Stoneware can also vary in colour.
4. Stoneware is extremely durable due to its high firing temperature.
5. Stoneware plates and other tableware are suitable for serving as well as for cooking, baking, and storing foods.

PROPERTIES OF CERAMICS

Ceramic is a broad category which includes earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain.

Therefore, stoneware is also a type of ceramic.

1. Earthenware is pottery that has been fired at relatively low temperatures. Although earthenware has a thick and rustic look, it is not as strong or as durable as stoneware. It is also more porous than other materials and because of this it is usually glazed and then fired again.
2. Earthenware is porous and is prone to chipping but is cheaper than porcelain. This is why it is a popular choice for daily casual use of all types of tableware including bowls, plates, and mugs.
3. Ceramic tableware is more versatile and easier to maintain, as you can use it in the microwave or wash it in the dishwasher.
4. Earthenware is also a great choice for the making of eco-friendly cookware that is non-stick and non-toxic, and suitable for use in the oven.
5. Plates and other tableware made of ceramic are usually glazed and offer many different colour and design options, so you can have a specific pattern replicated on all pieces.
6. Earthenware pieces tend to be heavier and thicker than other types of ceramics, but they chip more easily.
7. Porcelain is another type of ceramic that is fired to extremely high temperatures. It is much harder than other ceramics and it is white in its finish. It is suitable for more formal occasions and fine dining, but it is more expensive.
8. Porcelain is lighter, thinner, and finer in texture than other ceramics that are more rustic and handmade in appearance.

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