Prior to the 1950s, most china plates were round, with the exception of some art deco pieces in the 1920s. Generally, china will either have rimmed or coupe plates. Rim plate china contains a second circle indented inside the plate, while coupe plates are all one diameter in shape. [1] X Research source
Two examples of specialty company designs include Haviland, which was known for china with soft floral displays, and Wedgwood, which themed china patterns off portraits or classical Greek scenes. [2] X Research source
While checking for consistency, you’ll have a perfect chance to scope out the quality as well. An ideal set will be consistent in both pattern and color. The glaze and construction are also a good way of determining quality. Glaze should not be bubbled or cracked, and the pieces should be completely level so that they don’t wobble when laid on the table. [3] X Research source
The back/marker stamp is usually found on the bottom of the dinnerware. Look for a marking that is painted, impressed, or stamped on the piece. Back/marker stamps can be very small, but these usually include an emblem of some sort, the name of the manufacturer, and possibly numbers indicating the class or date of the piece. A good way of finding the approximate value of your piece is to search for an identical or nearly identical piece on an online auction to see its going value. However, this approximation may vary greatly from that of a professional appraiser. If you find that your dinnerware is valuable, you might want to take it to a professional appraiser so you can determine the precise value. If the stamp on the back of your dinnerware is illegible, you can compare its markings with more visible ones on similar dinnerware in an antique catalog at your local library or an electronic directory online.
Designs from 1920 - 1940, which often featured bright colors and geometric shapes. Pastel colors were still somewhat popular at this time, as well as ivory or cream white pieces with gold or silver gilding. Designs from 1940 - 1950, which leaned more heavily on bold colors like red, blue, and green. Pastels were rare during this period. The shape most popular in this era was rimless and streamlined. Designs from 1950 - 1970 rarely had gold trim, as the recent invention of the microwave made this impractical. Pastels returned to popularity, but were more muted than the dinnerware of the past. [5] X Research source
Online appraisal services are rarely able to accurately gauge the exact worth of your dinnerware. [6] X Research source The best use for these online services is to get direction for further research.
Your local library may have a specific section devoted to arts and collectibles. This may be the best place to start your research. If your dinnerware has a specific name stamped on it, such as Limoges or Wedgwood, you’ll likely be able to find books about those particular manufacturers.
In some cases, the back/marker stamp on the bottom of your dinnerware may give you the exact date of its production. This can help significantly with your research. [7] X Research source
Even if the change you intend on making would normally be considered an improvement, this can result in a lower appraisal than the original. Keep any parts, spare pieces, or broken pieces with the original piece. In some cases, you may be advised by your appraiser to have the piece repaired by a professional.
If you’re having trouble finding an appraiser or if they are too expensive for your budget, you might inquire with bank Trust managers or Estate Lawyers to find a suitable individual to appraise your dinnerware. You should also avoid auction houses and dealers when getting your dinnerware appraised. These people may deflate the value of your piece with hopes of buying it from you cheap.
After you’ve narrowed down the candidates for an appraiser, you should request a written estimate of how much the appraisal will cost and how long it will take. Generally, a written report and full appraisal of your dinnerware will take about a month. However, high demand appraisers may need more time. [9] X Research source
In most cases, the written part of your appraisal should indicate the state of the market for your particular kind of dinnerware. [11] X Research source
