Bone China: A Guide to the Elegant and Durable Ceramic

- 2023-06-26 09:55:06-

Bone china is a type of ceramic that is composed of bone ash, china clay, and china stone. It has been defined as "ware with a translucent body" containing a minimum of 30% phosphate derived from animal bone and calculated calcium phosphate. Bone china is the strongest of the porcelain or china ceramics, having very high mechanical and physical strength and chip resistance, and is known for its high levels of whiteness and translucency.  Its high strength allows it to be produced in thinner cross-sections than other types of porcelain.


Bone china is most popular for tableware and teaware in England and the United States. It is used to produce high-end ceramic products known for their bright milky white color, translucency, and lightweight but sturdy properties. Bone china can be decorated with various techniques such as painting, glazing, gilding, transfer printing, and decals. Bone china can also be shaped into various forms such as plates, bowls, mugs, teacups, vases, figurines, and ornaments.


Bone china requires careful handling and maintenance to preserve its beauty and durability. Here are some tips on how to care for bone china:


•  Cleaning: Bone china should be washed with warm water and mild detergent after use, to remove any stains or dirt. If there are stubborn stains, you can use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub, or use baking soda, lemon juice or other natural cleaners to wipe. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals to avoid damaging the glaze layer.


•  Drying: Bone china should be dried with a soft cloth or towel after washing, to avoid water spots or streaks. Do not leave bone china wet or damp for a long time, as this may cause cracking or crazing.


•  Storing: Bone china should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. You can wrap it with paper or cotton cloth to prevent dust or scratches. If possible, you can use a special cabinet or display case for storing bone china, to maintain a suitable temperature and humidity. When storing, make sure to separate them with padding or dividers to avoid collision or pressure.


•  Caring: Bone china may lose its luster or color over time due to exposure to air or light. To restore its original shine and appearance, you can use a mild polish or wax to gently buff the surface of bone china. You can also use a soft cloth dipped in a little vegetable oil or mineral oil to lightly wipe the surface of bone china to enhance its glossiness. But be careful not to use too much or too often oil or polish to avoid clogging the pores of bone china or changing its color.