Perfect Imperfection: Ironstone

It does not matter if your style is Shabby Chic, French Farmhouse, Vintage Cottage 

or Traditional Classic, ironstone complements every style.

By the way, I couldn't find lacy shelf paper so I used curtain valances folded in half.

With its pure white simplicity and its hefty weight, 

its perfect imperfection works in almost any decor.

I love the pieces with crazing--that fine crackling on the surface 

that speaks of age and untold stories.

I admit it. 

I have a growing addiction to ironstone, seeking it out at thrift stores and estate sales, 

even the occasional antique store. 

Whenever I'm scouring thrift store shelves, the first thing I do when I spot a potential white treasure is turn it over to see if its sporting one of those gorgeous English crests that mark real ironstone.

First produced in Staffordshire, England in the 19th century, 

ironstone was a cheap alternative to porcelain. 

Mass produced for the colonies, it was sturdy and inexpensive. It's still sturdy. 

Collectors have created a demand for the creamy goodness of Ironstone 

and the price has risen accordingly.

I appreciate how it blends seamlessly with my Mom's "good dishes." 

I remember her telling me about her first Thanksgiving dinner for her new husband and in-laws. 

And her, with no good dishes. 

She ran to the store to buy a set of Homer Laughlin Eggshell Georgian gold-rimmed, 

"Rambler Rose" dishes and saved the day.

 I found an old 1950s ad for a 53-piece set of these dishes for $7.50!
Little did Mom know how valuable these dishes would become. 

Growing up, we never saw those dishes unless it was Christmas or Thanksgiving. 

They were the good dishes, for special occasions only.

I inherited these dishes, complete with sugar, creamer, cups, saucers, platters and plates.

I love how they look in my china closet with my ironstone.

And yes, Mom, I save them for special occasions too.

Linking with:  Dwellings, Rustic & Refined, Cedar Hill Farmhouse,
Savvy Southern Style, Knick of Time, Vintage Nest, From My Front Porch to Yours,
French Country Cottage, Coastal Charm, Shabby Art Boutique