Wedgwood China is highly collectible, being a high quality product with diversity and sound craftsmanship behind it.

Josiah Wedgwood founded a company in the mid 1700s. Within 10 years he developed the distinct cream earthenware for which Wedgwood is famous (see Queen’s Ware).

Another development around this time was called Egyptian Black, used for various items. This continues to be relatively popular. Modernly, the Wedgwood company continues to remain strong, having successfully merged with Waterford crystal.

Egyptian Black Pattern

There are four types of Wedgwood most recognizable to novice collectors. The first is Jasperware, distinguished by Greco-Roman images and a blue base. Wedgwood often used this style for making tourist memorabilia. This became highly recognized and popular and remains a “signature” of Josiah.

The second is known as Queen’s Ware. This type of china was used specifically for dinner by an English Queen, and its characterized by ivy leaf borders.

The third type of Wedgwood boils down to trinket items like holiday decorations, commemorative plates, and thematic figurines. New Collectors often favor these are they’re a little more affordable when released than some of the classic/vintage pieces.

Finally we get to the largest bulk of Wedgwood, namely table settings.

No matter the desired piece, its important to know how to shop for Wedgwood to weed out fakes and less desired pieces.

Like any china, you want to avoid chips or cracks, as well as obvious flaws in the markings. On the upside, Wedgwood is not easily faked.

The Wedgwood Egyptian Black china pattern is one of many popular patterns.

During its entire period of production nearly all china companies market their pieces, and Wedgwood is no exception. The mark typically reads: “Wedgwood England” or “Wedgwood Made in England” – there were a few shifts and changes over the years, but those two markings are relatively consistent. Only the oldest of Wedgwood could be found without a mark.

There is another company that produces china called WedgEwood (note the E). This is not collector level material.