Discover the World of Stoneware Pottery

Stoneware: An Overview

• Stoneware is a type of pottery fired at high temperatures, ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 degrees Celsius.
• It was developed independently in different parts of the world after earthenware and before porcelain.
• Stoneware is not recognized as a category in traditional East Asian terminology, and much Asian stoneware is counted as porcelain by local definitions.
• Stoneware is used for end applications such as tableware, decorative ware, and vases.
• The compositions of stoneware bodies vary considerably and include both prepared and as-dug clays.
• The key raw materials for stoneware are naturally occurring stoneware clay or non-refractory fire clay.
• Stoneware can be once-fired or twice-fired, with most commonly an oxidizing kiln atmosphere used.
• Stoneware was produced in the Indus Valley civilization, China, Japan, Korea, Germany, and England.
• Stoneware was mainly used for utilitarian wares and those for the poor in China, while in Japan, it was used for the Japanese tea ceremony.
• England was the most inventive and important European maker of fancy stoneware in the 18th and 19th centuries.
• Stoneware is commonly used in modern commercial tableware and kitchenware, as well as in craft and studio pottery.
• The popular Japanese-inspired raku ware is normally stoneware.