What is the difference between earthenware and stoneware

Modern earthenware honey jar by emartinpottery on Etsy. Pfaltzgraff is perhaps the best known commercial maker of stoneware dinnerware here in the US, including the much beloved Yorktowne pattern. Previous Post Next Post. Laurie I am a vintage fanatic, collector and seller with a distinctly New England point of view.

I really like this series of blog posts you are doing, Laurie. Thanks Mrs. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Close Menu. Distinguish, differentiate, compare and explain what is the difference between Earthenware and Stoneware Ceramics.

Comparison and Differences. Clays, based mostly upon their ability to vitrify become hard but also to some extent on plasticity and porosity, can be divided into three general groups: earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain-type clay. The biggest difference between stoneware and earthenware is porosity.

Thats the density of the particles. Earthenware matures at a much lower temperature than stoneware when fired. In fact, because earthenware is so much more porous, the surface must have an applied glazed to cut down on liquid absorption. On the other hand, stoneware is so dense that glaze is not necessary to keep it from absorbing liquids. Stoneware is fired at very high temperatures so that it becomes on-porous, almost like glass. The heat literally melts down the microscopic holes until its impervious.

Earthenware is fired at lower temperatures and is porous. It can also be easily scratched and damaged, whereas stoneware resists scratches very, very well. Earthenware is a clay fired at low temperatures where it does not become vitreous.

Last name. Slightly porous, even when fired to maturity water will soak into it if not glazed or sealed. Low-shrinkage from wet to fired states.

Not so great for dishware as it is not as sturdy as stoneware or porcelain and is prone to chipping and staining. Stoneware: Mid-High fire: cone degrees. Non-porous when fully vitrified fired to maturity temperature recommended by clay company.

Widely used for dishware and functional items as well as sculpture and decorative pieces. Range of shrinkage depending on specific clay composition, but your piece WILL get smaller when you fire it. Use stoneware if: The piece will be used a lot think dishware, in the dishwasher, passed around the table, etc.

The piece needs to hold water and be food-safe forever. The piece will be used in the oven think casseroles.