Difference between bone china and porcelain can be confusing due to their similarities. Porcelain and bone china both have a high firing temperature, and both are made from a mix of clay and other minerals, such as quartz, feldspar, and kaolin. However, there are some distinct differences that make bone china unique and more valuable than porcelain.
The primary difference between bone china and porcelain is the material used to make them. Porcelain is made from a mixture of clay and other minerals, while bone china is made from a mixture of clay, bone ash, and other minerals. The bone ash used in bone china is derived from cattle, and it is what gives bone china its unique properties.
Bone china is much harder and stronger than porcelain, and it is also more translucent. Bone china has a soft, white color, while porcelain can vary in color. The translucency of bone china also allows for more intricate designs, as light can pass through the material more easily. This makes bone china more desirable for delicate designs, such as floral patterns.
The firing temperature of bone china is also much higher than porcelain, making it more durable. Bone china is also more expensive than porcelain due to its higher quality. It is also more difficult to make than porcelain due to its higher firing temperature.
In terms of care, both bone china and porcelain are relatively easy to care for. Both should be washed with mild detergent and warm water, and should never be placed in the dishwasher. Both can also be used in the microwave. The only difference is that bone china should not be used in the oven.
To summarize, the main difference between bone china and porcelain is the material used to make them. Porcelain is made from a mixture of clay and other minerals, while bone china is made from a mixture of clay, bone ash, and other minerals. Bone china is much harder and stronger than porcelain and more translucent, allowing for more intricate designs. The firing temperature of bone china is also much higher than porcelain, making it more durable, and more expensive. In terms of care, both bone china and porcelain are relatively easy to care for, but bone china should not be used in the oven.