Finding Fine China at Goodwill

Did you know that fine china is making a comeback? It seems that setting a welcoming table with fine china has a sweet appeal for the American family that is used to eating meals in front of the TV.  Goodwill is often the recipient of kindly donated fine china, in pieces or in sets, and we are sharing a couple tips for discovering this treasure at your local store.
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China is the term loosely applied to porcelain ware pieces. But not all porcelain is fine.
You can look for the makers mark, but also use your senses to judge and appreciate whether it is fine china or dinnerware.

Pick up the piece. It should feel delicate, actually feel "fine". If it has a heavy, or big and clunky feel, then it would not be fine china.

Milham Store Treasure Chest Dept.

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Look at the piece for details such as the manufacturer. China and European countries are producers of fine china, verses the U.S. or Japan. But not all fine china will have a mark. The details on the china are important too. Fine china will have high details. Compare the piece to dinnerware, and you will see the difference in the details of the artwork. Fine china will also have a high gloss.

Milham Store Treasure Chest Dept.

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The best way to learn about fine china pieces and discover them at Goodwill is to enjoy the treasure hunt! When you shop at your Goodwill, there is a treasure chest dept. and a wares dept. You can find special pieces and sets in both departments, but this is a great way to compare pieces and look for those details.

Milham Wares Dept.

Milham Wares Dept.

Learn more by visiting antique shops and check out books about fine china at the library. And talk to your older relatives! They will remember the days when you would select china for your wedding, and have memories of special family gatherings when you got out the "good" china!

Happy Treasure Hunting!