Bone China

A specific type of fine china manufactured for centuries in England and more recently in other parts of the world. The body contains a high proportion of bone ash (calcined animal bones or calcium phosphate) to produce greater translucency, whiteness and strength. It is made primarily for the retail trade, but has recently gained popularity for commercial use.

Earthenware

A semi-vitreous, porous type of ceramic body fired at comparatively low temperatures, producing an opaque body that is not as strong as stoneware or china. It has a medium to high porosity (5% to 15%) with very little chip and impact resistance.

Stoneware

A non-porous ceramic body made of unprocessed clays fired at high temperatures. It may be glazed or unglazed, with a relatively low porosity (1.5% to 5%) and low to medium resistance to chipping and breaking. It differs from porcelain mainly in that it isn't white, due to iron or other impurities in the clay.

Porcelain

A hard, nonporous, vitrified, translucent body which may be produced in one or two firings. It is a durable with high chip and impact resistance.