What is fiestaware made of? When it comes to dinnerware, Fiestaware stands out with its bold and vibrant colors. But what is Fiestaware made of? Fiestaware has been a popular choice for kitchen and dining collections since its introduction in the 1930s. 

Its durability and timeless style have made it a staple in many households. In this blog post, we will delve into the materials that make up Fiestaware, exploring its composition and the unique qualities that make it a top choice for both everyday use and special occasions.

So, if you’ve ever been curious about the composition of this iconic dinnerware, read on to discover what Fiestaware is made of.

VINTAGE FIESTAWARE

Vintage Fiestaware refers to the early line of colourful ceramic dinnerware produced by the Homer Laughlin China Company. Fiestaware was first introduced in 1936 and quickly became popular for its vibrant colours and distinctive design. The initial line featured five primary colours: red, blue, green, yellow, and ivory. Over the years, additional colours were added and later discontinued, making certain colours more collectable and valuable.

Fiestaware is recognized for its Art Deco-inspired design, which includes concentric rings and a glossy glaze. The line initially struggled due to its high cost and the emergence of World War II, leading to several colours being discontinued. However, in the 1980s, there was a resurgence of interest in Fiestaware, making vintage pieces sought-after collectables among enthusiasts and collectors

WHAT IS FIESTAWARE MADE OF?

What is fiestaware made of? Fiestaware is made of vitrified ceramic, which is a type of pottery that has been fired at a high temperature to create a glass-like, non-porous surface. It is also lead-free and safe for use in food and beverages.

FIESTAWARE PLATES

The Fiesta Dinner Plate is a 10-1/2-inch plate that comes in a set of 4 plates. The colour of the plates is Lapis, which is a vibrant shade of blue. These plates are made by the brand Fiesta, known for its durable and high-quality dinnerware. The plates are made from lead-free, chip-resistant ceramic that is oven and microwave-safe.

The Fiesta 7-1/4-Inch Salad Plates, Set of 4, Scarlet is a set of four salad plates made by the brand Fiesta. The plates are 7-1/4 inches in diameter and come in a vibrant scarlet red colour. 

They are made of durable, lead-free china and are suitable for everyday use or special occasions. The plates are dishwasher, oven, and microwave-safe, making them convenient and versatile. 

They feature a classic design with a slightly flared shape and a glossy finish. This set of salad plates is perfect for serving salads, side dishes, appetizers, or desserts in style. 

The Fiesta 10-1/2-Inch Dinner Plate is a set of four ivory-coloured plates. Each plate has a diameter of 10-1/2 inches, making it suitable for serving main courses during meals. 

The ivory colour adds a touch of elegance and can easily complement any dining table or dinnerware set. The set includes four plates, allowing you to serve multiple guests or have extras for replacements. 

These plates are part of the Fiesta dinnerware collection, known for their durability and vibrant colours. Whether for everyday use or special occasions, these dinner plates are a stylish and functional addition to your tableware. 

The Fiesta 9-1/4-Inch Square Luncheon Plate in Scarlet is a vibrant and stylish plate perfect for serving lunch or dinner. It features a bold and rich red colour known as Scarlet from the Fiesta colour collection. The square shape adds a modern touch to the plate, making it a statement piece for any table setting. 

The plate measures 9-1/4 inches in size, providing ample space for serving main meals, sides, or salads. It is made from durable and long-lasting ceramic, ensuring it will stand up to everyday use. 

This luncheon plate is also dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe for easy cleaning and convenient use. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a formal dinner, the Fiesta 9-1/4-Inch Square Luncheon Plate in Scarlet will add a pop of colour and style to any meal.

The Fiesta 7.25″ Salad Plate in Mulberry is a small-sized plate that is perfect for serving salads, appetizers, or desserts. It is part of the Fiesta dinnerware collection, known for its vibrant colours and durable construction.

 The Mulberry colour is a rich, deep shade of purple that adds a bold and stylish touch to any table setting. The plate is made of high-quality ceramic material and is oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe for convenience.

 Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, the Fiesta 7.25″ Salad Plate in Mulberry is a versatile and attractive choice.

FIESTAWARE RADIOACTIVE

Fiestaware, also known as Fiesta, is a line of ceramic dinnerware and other kitchenware products that have been popular in the United States since its introduction in 1936 by the Homer Laughlin China Company. It is famous for its vibrant and colourful glazes.

In the early years of production, from 1936 to 1943, Fiestaware was made with a type of glaze that contained uranium oxide, which gave the dinnerware its distinctive bright and radioactive colours, such as red, orange, yellow, and bright green known as “radioactive green.” The addition of uranium oxide to the glaze made the dinnerware set slightly radioactive, but it was considered safe for everyday use.

However, in 1943, due to World War II and restrictions on uranium usage, the company stopped using uranium oxide in its glaze. From that point onward, Fiestaware was made with different glaze formulations, and it is no longer radioactive.

Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out the vintage Fiestaware produced between 1936 and 1943 because of its historical significance and distinctive colours.

However, it’s important to note that even though this early Fiestaware contained uranium oxide, the radioactivity levels are relatively low and pose no health risks under normal use. Nevertheless, if you own or encounter vintage Fiestaware, it is recommended to handle it with care and avoid using it for food storage or consumption, as the glaze may be more prone to deterioration over time.

HOW TO IDENTIFY RADIOACTIVE FIESTAWARE

Identifying radioactive Fiestaware can be a bit challenging, especially without specialized equipment. However, there are a few ways you can make an educated guess about whether a particular piece of Fiestaware might contain uranium oxide glaze:

Check the colour: Radioactive Fiestaware often exhibits specific bright and vibrant colours, such as red, orange, yellow, and a bright green (radioactive green). These colours were a result of the uranium oxide used in the glaze. If you come across a vintage Fiestaware piece in any of these distinctive colours, there’s a higher likelihood that it could be radioactive.

Look for date stamps: The radioactive Fiestaware was produced between 1936 and 1943. Pieces from this period may have a stamp on the bottom that includes the words “Fiesta” or “Genuine Fiesta,” along with the year the piece was made. If you find pieces with date stamps from this timeframe, there’s a higher chance that they could be radioactive.

Geiger counter test: The most accurate way to determine if a piece of Fiestaware is radioactive is to use a Geiger counter, a device that can detect radiation. If you have access to a Geiger counter, you can hold it near the Fiestaware and see if it registers any radiation. However, keep in mind that the radiation levels in radioactive Fiestaware are relatively low and not considered dangerous under normal handling conditions.

Seek expert evaluation: If you are uncertain about a particular piece of Fiestaware, consider reaching out to experts or collectors who specialize in vintage Fiestaware. They may be able to offer insights based on their knowledge and experience.

It’s important to note that while some vintage Fiestaware may contain small amounts of radioactivity, it is considered safe for display and handling. However, it’s best to avoid using vintage Fiestaware for food storage or consumption, as the glaze may be more prone to wear and deterioration over time.

IS VINTAGE FIESTAWARE SAFE TO EAT OFF?

Fiesta dinnerware, also known as Fiestaware, is considered safe for eating. Fiesta dinnerware is made of lead-free ceramic material, specifically vitrified china, and is manufactured in the United States by the Homer Laughlin China Company.

Fiesta dinnerware is made from lead-free china, which meets or exceeds all FDA standards for cadmium and lead safety. It is also dishwasher, microwave, and oven-safe.

IS VINTAGE FIESTAWARE MICROWAVE SAFE?

Vintage FiestaWare, produced before 1986, was not originally made to be microwave safe. The colours and glazes used in the original production can react to the high temperatures of the microwave, causing discolouration or even cracking. However, some people still use vintage Fiestaware in the microwave with no issues, while others choose to err on the side of caution and avoid using it in the microwave.

WHY IS FIESTAWARE SO EXPENSIVE?

Fiestaware can be relatively expensive for several reasons:

Collectable Value: Vintage Fiestaware, especially pieces from the original line produced in the 1930s and 1940s, have become collectables. Collectors value the historical significance, rarity, and unique colours of these early pieces, which drives up their prices.

Limited Production: While Fiestaware is still produced today, certain colours or styles may have limited production runs, making them harder to find and more valuable to collectors.

Nostalgia and Vintage Appeal: Fiestaware has a nostalgic appeal for many people who grew up using or seeing these colourful dishes in their homes or relatives’ homes. The sentimental value attached to these items can drive demand and increase their price.

Quality and Durability: Fiestaware is known for its high-quality, durable ceramic construction. Many vintage pieces have withstood the test of time and remain in excellent condition, adding to their value.

Artisanal Production: Each piece of Fiestaware is handcrafted, and the production process involves multiple steps, including casting, glazing, firing, and finishing. This artisanal production process contributes to the overall cost of the dinnerware.

Distinctive Design: Fiestaware’s iconic Art Deco-inspired design sets it apart from other dinnerware. The bright and bold colours, along with the concentric rings, make Fiestaware easily recognizable and desirable for collectors and enthusiasts.

Marketing and Branding: Homer Laughlin, the company behind Fiestaware, has successfully marketed the brand over the years, creating a strong brand identity and demand for its products.

The Resurgence of Interest: In the 1980s, there was a resurgence of interest in vintage Fiestaware, which boosted its popularity and, in turn, its price.

It’s important to note that the price of Fiestaware can vary widely depending on factors such as the rarity of the colour or style, the condition of the piece, and current market demand. While vintage Fiestaware can be expensive, there are also more affordable options available for those who appreciate the design but don’t necessarily require vintage pieces. Additionally, modern production lines of Fiestaware offer a wider range of colours and styles at varying price points.