What is "ironstone china"

Ironstone \I"ron*stone`\,

1. n. A hard, earthy ore of iron.

2. ironstone china.

   Clay ironstone. See under Clay.

   Ironstone china, a hard white pottery, first made in England during the 18th century.

Ironstone china, ironstone ware or most commonly just ironstone, is a type of vitreous pottery first made in the United Kingdom in the early 19th century. It is often classed as earthenware although in appearance and properties it is similar to fine stoneware. It was developed in the 19th century by potters in Staffordshire, England as a cheaper, mass-produced alternative for porcelain.

There is no iron in ironstone; its name is derived from its notable strength and durability.

Ironstone in Britain's Staffordshire potteries was closely associated with the company founded by Charles James Mason following his patent of 1813, with the name subsequently becoming generic. The strength of Mason's ironstone body enabled the company to produce ornamental objects of considerable size including vestibule vases 1.5 metres high and mantelpieces assembled from several large sections.

Antique ironstone wares are collectable, and in particular items made by Mason's.