Stone or Ceramic ware: Which is a better option for your house?

Ceramics and stoneware have been an important part of human culture for thousands of years

Ceramics and stoneware are simple ways to spruce up your home decor. That’s because they’re so versatile: Opt for functional (mugs or dessert plates), slightly more decorative (a vase or trinket dish), or something in between (a wine/water jug).

You can choose monochrome designs for a sleeker look, or an assortment of colourful pieces for an eclectic vibe
Most of our customers often ask the difference between ceramics, stoneware, earthenware and porcelain.
Here we decode the differences, for you to make an informed choice.

Ceramics

While the word ceramic refers to various items of clay that are heated to very high temperatures and hardened, it is a broad category comprising Earthenware, Stoneware, and Porcelain.
Therefore, Stoneware is a part of Ceramics.

Stoneware

Diving further into the topic of Stoneware, it is a nonporous ceramic that has been heated to high temperatures, making it more durable when compared to Earthenware.

Stoneware gets its name from its stone-like quality and appearance which can also be designed or glazed to enhance it. Normally, stoneware owns a rustic and earthy appearance.

When talked about its usage, it can be equally applicable and useful in ovens, microwaves, freezers, and dishwashers due to its exceptional ability to distribute heat evenly, unlike other ceramics.

Earthenware

Earthenware is that pottery fired at low temperatures, which makes it less strong and less durable, comparatively. It holds absorbing powers yet is prone to chipping. Nonetheless, it is more economical than porcelain.

Porcelain

Pottery created by heating materials like Kaolin in a kiln to high temperatures is Porcelain. Due to this, the material is shiny and often white and translucent. Its uses include tiles, dinnerware, decorative figurines, and more due to its delicate and beautiful appearance that Stoneware usually lacks.

The differences that set Stoneware and Ceramic apart are:

Meaning:
While Stoneware is a nonporous ceramic fired at high temperatures, Ceramic is a broader term that includes stoneware, earthenware, and porcelain, made of clay, which is heated to high temperatures and hardened.

Firing Temperatures:
Stoneware is heated at high firing temperatures usually between 2150- 2330° Fahrenheit while other ceramics like Earthenware are heated at low temperatures.

Appearance:
Stoneware, true to its name, has a more stone-like dense and opaque appearance whereas other ceramics like Porcelain have a white, delicate, and translucent appearance.

Durability:
Comparing the durability of the two, earthenware falls short of durability while stoneware lasts longer due to its strong nature. However, Porcelain is as durable as stoneware.

Discussing the differences between Ceramics and Stoneware, we understood how their ability, durability, appearance, heating levels, and cost sets them apart.

Hence, these are the main differences between stoneware and ceramic.