What Is Wedgwood Bone China? Everything You Need to Know

If you've ever shopped for fine tableware, you've likely heard of the term "Wedgwood" and the term "bone china." You've probably assumed that they're either the same thing, or that they're two different types of china that compete with each other. In reality, they're completely different things, and understanding the difference between them could help you make a smarter purchase.

Wedgwood bone china is one of the most searched topics among fine china buyers in Australia and worldwide - and for good reason. If you're not sure what to look for in tableware, check out our guide on what a dinnerware set includes.

The Short Answer

Bone china is a material, a particular type of ceramic used for dinnerware, dishes, cups, and other tableware. Wedgwood, on the other hand, is a brand, a very prestigious maker of ceramics in the UK, and the world, founded by Josiah Wedgwood in 1759.

To make things simple, Wedgwood is a maker of bone china, among other things. It is a bit like asking which is better, leather or Louis Vuitton? One is a material, the other is a maker of that material.

What Is Bone China?

Bone china is a form of porcelain that was first created in England in the late 18th century. The key to bone china is the ingredients that are mixed together to form the ceramic material, which are at least 30% bone ash, typically derived from cattle bones, as well as kaolin, which is a type of clay, and feldspathic material.

Some of the key properties of bone china are as follows:

• Translucency: A bone china plate will allow you to see your hand through it if you hold it up to the light.
• Strength: It is stronger than regular porcelain.
• Whiteness: It has a natural warm, creamy white color.
• Lightweight: It has a light feel to it, lighter than regular ceramic or stoneware.
• Chip resistance: It is more resistant to chipping than many other types of fine ceramics.

Bone china is the highest quality of porcelain that is currently manufactured, and it is used by many of the world's top tableware manufacturers.

What Is Wedgwood?

Wedgwood is a renowned pottery and fine china company from England. The company was founded more than 260 years ago by Josiah Wedgwood. It gained fame for introducing new styles of ceramics, especially Jasperware, which is a type of matte finish, unglazed stoneware featuring raised white classical figures or decorations.

The company currently offers a range of products, including:

•    Bone china dinner sets (such as Vera Wang Venato Imperial Dinnerware), cups, and other tableware
•    Fine china giftware
•    Jasperware collectibles
•    Home decor and accessories

Wedgwood is not china; it is a company that makes china, including bone china.

For a deeper look at Wedgwood's history, collections, and collectible value, read our complete guide to Wedgwood China.

Does Wedgwood Make Bone China?

Yes, Wedgwood does make bone china, and it is one of the most famous bone china manufacturers in the world. Wedgwood is known for its most popular bone china collections, including the Blue Jasper and Wild Strawberry collections.

But not everything Wedgwood offers to customers is bone china. Wedgwood also offers stoneware, fine china, and porcelainware, depending on the collection. It is recommended that while purchasing Wedgwood, customers should look at the description of the product to see if it is bone china or something else.

Is Wedgwood a Good Brand?

As a brand, yes - Wedgwood's 260+ years of heritage since 1759 make it one of the most trusted names in tableware. But remember: that trust applies to the maker, not the material. Whether bone china itself suits your needs depends on how you plan to use it — see the comparison below.

Why Do People Confuse Them?

The confusion is natural. When you are shopping for tableware online, you'll find many products described as "Wedgwood bone china." This leads many people to believe that there are two different products: Wedgwood and bone china.

However, "Wedgwood bone china" simply implies that the product is both a bone china product and a Wedgwood product.

For instance, if you were to buy shoes online, you'll find many products described as "Nike leather shoes," where "leather" is the material and "Nike" is the brand name. The same applies here.

Which Should You Buy?

Here is a quick guide if you want to buy premium tableware:

•  If you want the best material: Buy bone china whatever the brand.
•  If you want a heritage brand: Wedgwood is an excellent choice. Their bone china collections are great.
•  If you want to save money: Wedgwood is expensive. Other brands also offer good bone china products at a lower price point.
• If you want to collect or want to present: Wedgwood's Jasperware and classic collections are hard to beat.

Ready to shop? See our roundup of the best stores to buy dinner sets online and in-store.

Conclusion
It is important to note that Wedgwood and bone china are not competitors, as they fall into two different categories. Bone china is a high-end ceramic product known for its aesthetic and longevity qualities, while Wedgwood is a renowned global leader in fine dining products, of which bone china is a part. 

This information will assist you in shopping confidently and finding the right dining products to meet your requirements, whether it is to host a formal dinner, purchase a thoughtful gift, or begin a china collection.

FAQ

Is Wedgwood the same as bone china?

No. Wedgwood is a brand; bone china is a material. Wedgwood produces bone china products, but they are not the same thing.

Is all Wedgwood bone china?

Not all Wedgwood products are made from bone china. The brand also produces stoneware and other ceramic types. Always check the product description.

What makes bone china special?

Bone china is made with bone ash, giving it exceptional whiteness, translucency, and durability. It's considered the finest type of porcelain available.

Is Wedgwood bone china valuable?

Yes, Wedgwood bone china is generally considered high-quality and valuable, both for everyday use and as a collectible.

Is Wedgwood bone china made in England?

Historically yes, but today much of Wedgwood's production has moved overseas. Pieces marked 'Made in England' are older and generally more valuable to collectors.