Vietnam
Glazed porcelain has become a favorite choice for modern households that value beauty, durability, and everyday comfort. Whether you enjoy minimalism, warm rustic tones, or colorful table settings, the right glazed porcelain set can elevate the entire dining experience. With so many styles, finishes, and quality levels available, choosing the perfect set for your home can feel overwhelming. This guide helps you understand what glazed porcelain really is, why it stands out, and how to select pieces that suit your lifestyle and interior style.
1. What is glazed porcelain?
Glazed porcelain refers to porcelain pieces coated with a layer of porcelain glaze that is fired at high temperatures. This glaze forms a smooth, protective surface that enhances color, shine, and durability. Thanks to the high firing temperature, glaze porcelain is non-porous, stain-resistant, and tougher than many other ceramic materials.
The process is as follows:
- Forming: The porcelain clay (a mixture often containing kaolin) is shaped.
- Biscuit Firing: The piece is fired at a lower temperature to create a hard, porous ‘biscuit’ body.
- Glazing: A liquid coating (the porcelain glaze) is applied, often containing glass-forming minerals, flux, and colorants.
- Glaze Firing: The piece is fired at a very high temperature. During this crucial stage, the glaze melts, flows, and then cools to form a smooth, impervious, and shiny or matte layer bonded permanently to the porcelain body.
This protective layer is what gives glaze porcelain its aesthetic appeal (color, shine, texture) and its functional benefits (water resistance, stain resistance, and ease of cleaning).
2. Why is glazed porcelain loved in modern homes?
Modern homes favor materials that combine practicality and timeless beauty — glaze porcelain checks all those boxes. Beyond its refined look, several reasons make homeowners love glaze porcelain:
- Exceptional Durability and Longevity: The high-firing process makes porcelain inherently strong. The added glaze layer protects against scratching and chipping, making it suitable for rigorous, everyday use. Many high-quality glaze porcelain items can last for decades.
- Hygienic and Non-Porous: Thanks to the effective seal created by the porcelain glaze, the material is non-porous.
- Temperature Retention: Porcelain has excellent heat-retaining properties. A warm glaze porcelain plate will keep your food hotter for longer, enhancing the dining experience.
- Aesthetic Versatility: The glaze is the canvas for all colors and finishes. Whether you seek a classic white shine, a modern matte black, or a unique reactive pattern, glaze porcelain can deliver.
- Microwave and Dishwasher Safety: Most high-quality glaze porcelain is perfectly safe for both the microwave and the dishwasher, which is a major convenience factor in a busy home.
3. Common types of glazed porcelain set
Glazed porcelain sets come in a wide variety of styles and functions. Understanding the categories helps you pick the right collections for your home.
3.1. Dinnerware sets for everyday use
These are the essential building blocks of your kitchen. They are typically sold as 12-piece (service for 4), 20-piece (service for 4-5), or 45-piece sets (service for 8).
- Components: Dinner plates, salad/side plates, soup/cereal bowls, and mugs/cups.
- Focus on: Durability, stackability, and a classic, versatile design that won’t tire over time. White or off-white glaze porcelain is the most popular choice for daily use as it makes food presentation pop.
3.2. Tea sets and cups for serving guests
These sets elevate any gathering, whether it’s a formal afternoon tea or a casual coffee with friends.
- Components: Teapots, teacups and saucers, sugar bowls, and creamers.
- Focus on: Finer details, delicate handles, and often a more decorative or luxurious porcelain glaze, such as a hand-painted or gold-rimmed finish.
3.3. Specialty items in kitchen
Beyond the main sets, specialty items are where glazed porcelain shines in solving specific kitchen needs.
- Serving Platters and Bowls: Large, sturdy pieces perfect for buffets or family-style meals.
- Casseroles and Bakeware: High-quality porcelain can be oven-safe, making it ideal for baking and then serving directly on the table.
- Condiment Dishes and Ramekins: Small, stylish pieces that add a professional touch to food prep and presentation.
4. How to choose glazed porcelain sets that fit your home
Selecting dinnerware is a deeply personal choice that should reflect your lifestyle, interior design, and family size.
4.1. Considering daily habits and lifestyle
Ask yourself:
- Do you cook often or eat out frequently?
- Do you host guests regularly?
- Do you prefer lightweight or heavier dishes?
If your family uses dinnerware three times a day, prioritize durability and ease of cleaning. For households that often welcome guests, choose versatile sets with serving platters and extra bowls.
4.2. Matching colors and finishes with your interior
Glazed porcelain offers endless color possibilities thanks to the porcelain glaze. Choose tones that complement your home:
- White and cream → for minimalist, Scandinavian, and hotel-style interiors.
- Deep blues, greens, or browns → for rustic or vintage-inspired homes.
- Pastel glazes → perfect for soft, feminine spaces.
- Reactive glazes → ideal for artistic interiors where no two pieces look alike.
Matching your dining set with the kitchen or dining room palette creates visual harmony.
4.3. Picking the right set size for your family
The size of your set determines how often you have to run the dishwasher.
- Couples: 8–12 pieces are enough.
- Families of 4: A 16–20 piece glazed porcelain dinnerware set works well.
- Large families or hosts: Choose 24-piece or expandable collections.
Remember: it’s always helpful to have a few extra bowls and side plates on hand.
5. The different types of glaze porcelain finishes
Glaze porcelain finishes vary widely, each bringing its own personality to the dinner table.
5.1. Glossy glazes
Glossy glazes are smooth, bright, and reflective. They highlight the depth of the porcelain glaze, giving dishes a polished look. Glossy glazed porcelain is popular for formal dining or modern interiors thanks to its sleek surface.
5.2. Matte finishes
Matte glazed porcelain offers a soft, velvety appearance. It reduces light reflection and creates a calm, contemporary feel. Many homeowners choose matte finishes for minimalist or organic-inspired spaces because they evoke warmth and subtle sophistication.
5.3. Reactive and handcrafted glazes
These finishes are created using special glaze techniques that react to heat in the kiln, producing unique patterns. No two pieces are identical. Reactive glazed porcelain is loved by people who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship and naturally textured looks.
6. How to care for your glazed porcelain sets properly
Glazed porcelain is naturally strong, but proper care ensures it lasts for years:
- Wash with mild soap and soft sponges to avoid scratching the glaze.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes (e.g., freezer to oven).
- Stack plates with felt or cloth between them if you store many pieces.
- For stubborn stains, use baking soda paste instead of harsh chemicals.
- Check the manufacturer’s note for microwave or dishwasher compatibility.
With the right care, your glazed porcelain stays vibrant and chip-free.
7. Recommended glazed porcelain sets worth considering
When searching for the best glazed porcelain sets, look for manufacturers with a long-standing reputation for using high-quality raw materials and firing techniques.
7.1. Kim Lai Gold Plated Tableware Sets
This luxurious set features a stunning gold-plated rim. The classic design adds a touch of sophistication to your table. It’s perfect for special occasions but durable enough for daily use.
7.2. Cuu Long Tableware Sets
Inspired by the majestic Mekong River, the Cuu Long set features flowing lines and a harmonious design. It’s a sophisticated and serene addition to your collection.
7.3. Gold-plated Thien Ma Tableware Sets
Inspired by traditional Vietnamese art, this dinnerware set showcases intricate patterns and a beautiful gold trim. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate cultural elegance.
7.4. Ngoc Diep Flower Tableware Set
The delicate Ngoc Diep (Jade Leaf) floral pattern brings a fresh, natural feel to your dining table. This set is a favorite for its charming and timeless appeal.
7.5. Hoa Lau Tableware Sets
The Hoa Lau (Reed Flower) set captures the beauty of wild grasses with a graceful, understated pattern. This set is perfect for a rustic yet refined table setting.
7.6. Cat Tuong Tableware Sets
The Cat Tuong set, meaning “auspicious” in Vietnamese, features a clean, simple design. Its minimalist aesthetic makes it versatile and perfect for any home decor.
See more: Top 8 best porcelain dinnerware gifts for holidays and celebrations
8. FAQs
8.1. What is the difference between polished porcelain and glazed porcelain?
Polished porcelain is mechanically polished to create shine, whereas glazed porcelain uses a layer of porcelain glaze that’s fired on the surface. The glaze adds color, protection, and design flexibility.
8.2. How do I know if a glazed porcelain set is high quality?
Check for smooth surfaces, stable colors, uniform thickness, and chip resistance. High-quality glazed porcelain feels balanced in hand and shows no glaze defects or uneven patches.
8.3. Is glazed porcelain safe for the microwave and dishwasher?
Most glazed porcelain sets are microwave- and dishwasher-safe, but you should verify the label. Some handcrafted glazes may require gentle care.
8.4. Are glazed porcelain sets durable for everyday use?
Yes. Thanks to the porcelain glaze and high firing temperatures, glazed porcelain is strong enough for daily meals, utensils, and frequent washing.
9. Where to buy premium porcelain tableware sets for your home?
If you seek durable, elegant, and safe glazed porcelain tableware, choose reputable brands with expert craftsmanship.
Long Phuong Porcelain stands out as an excellent option for discerning homeowners and commercial clients alike. Their collections are known for:
- Superior Brightness: The distinctive white body under a flawless, clear porcelain glaze provides the ideal backdrop for any cuisine.
- Commercial-Grade Durability: Fired at extremely high temperatures, their glazed porcelain is highly resistant to thermal shock, chipping, and the rigors of heavy use.
- Versatile Design: They offer a range of styles, from simple, elegant everyday sets to intricate, special occasion serving ware.
10. Conclusion
Glazed porcelain is a smart investment for families seeking durability, beauty, and everyday practicality. With endless colors, finishes, and set types, it effortlessly elevates your dining moments. By understanding your lifestyle, interior design, and preferred porcelain glaze style, you can easily find glazed porcelain sets that match your home perfectly.
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CEO of Long Phuong Group Joint Stock Company, with more than 20 years of exploration and research to obtain the best formulas and professional experience, Long Phuong Porcelain has produced more than 400 designs of all kinds of household porcelain, Significant contributions to Vietnam's ceramic industry.
