How to tell if porcelain is good quality

Since not all porcelains are the same, today we give you the keys to identify them like an expert.

Because choosing well is not just a matter of aesthetics, but also of durability, touch, and elegance.

What exactly is porcelain?

Porcelain is a type of ceramic fired at very high temperatures (over 1,200 °C), which gives it three fundamental characteristics:

• Great resistance

• Smooth, non-porous texture

• A shiny, fine, and slightly translucent finish

It is part of the large ceramic family, along with earthenware and stoneware.
 If you are not clear about the difference between these three materials, here is a quick guide to distinguish them.

Signs of quality porcelain

1. Translucency
Hold the plate or cup up to the light. Good porcelain lets a little light through:
if you see a faint luminous halo, almost like onion skin, you're on the right track.
If no light is visible… it's probably more earthenware or stoneware than porcelain.

2. Clear sound
Gently tap the rim with your finger or a small spoon.
Quality porcelain emits a high-pitched, clear sound, like a small bell.
If it sounds duller, it probably has more thickness or lower quality.

3. Smooth and even feel
The surface must be perfectly smooth and delicate, without irregularities, grains, or bubbles.
The glaze must be well fused: neither too thick nor cracked.

4. Thin but resistant thickness
Good porcelain is thin but strong. If the plate is too heavy or thick, it may be low-quality porcelain or simply another ceramic.

5. Bright and crisp finish
The color should be uniform and the white, slightly ivory or bluish. If it is too grayish or the glaze has opaque areas, it is a sign of lower quality.

6. Resistance to light bumps and scratches
Although all porcelain can break if dropped, good ones withstand small bumps from cutlery or daily stacking very well.
If you see many scratches or marks after little use, it is not a good sign.

What about drawings and gold rims?

In quality porcelain, decorative motifs are perfectly integrated and do not fade with use or dishwashing.
If there are gold details, these should be applied precisely and without smudges.

What if it's antique?

Antique porcelains can also be of very high quality, especially if they come from renowned brands such as Limoges, Meissen, or Gien.
Look for the stamp on the base and, if you have any doubts, ask us. 

Do you have an antique dinnerware set at home and don't know if it has value?
In this article, we explain how to value antique dinnerware and what details you should observe.

In summary, good porcelain is…

• Translucent and thin, but resistant

• Sounds like a small bell

• Has a smooth, uniform, and shiny glaze

• Withstands daily use well

• A pleasure for the eyes and touch

Want to always get your dinnerware right?

At La Compañía Francesa, we select porcelain as if choosing jewelry. Only pieces with careful design, quality, and that French touch that transforms a table into an experience.

With love,
Marga