Shopping for vintage china can be a little overwhelming. You want to enjoy the piece but also make sure you are purchasing something that is of reasonable value. Here are some tools for vintage china shopping to help you get started.
What is vintage china?
There is a big difference between antique and vintage. A true antique as defined by the United States Customs Service as an object that is 100 years of age or older. That bare-bones definition keeps things pretty simple to grasp most of the time. Whereas vintage china definition is not as well defined. So it could mean something less than 100 years old or something that was once in fashion and is now returning (like 70’s fashions). For me, vintage china is anywhere between 50 to 100 years old. It would contain all styles or types, and maybe even some wear and tear, but does not fit the definition of antique. With that defined, my focus is vintage china.
Why should I buy vintage china?
There are all sorts of reasons why you might consider buying vintage china. Sometimes it is for the collectability of an item or for personal use or gifting. I find that vintage china is not as expensive as antique and allows me a greater selection to choose from. I use my vintage china for personal use, for business opportunities, and also for gifting. A vintage teacup allows me the flexibility to share my love of tea with someone and it just looks sweet, setting the stage for enjoying and relaxing. It gives me a moment of treating myself in a way that doesn’t require a lot of investment.
What is my China Shopping Toolkit?
My China Shopping Toolkit are 4 things that I use anytime I go china shopping.
- Small flashlight – you want to have enough light to look at the piece of china, allow it to shine through and show any cracks or chips.
- Magnifying glass – Yup – pull out the ol’ detective mode and check out the piece.
- Your fingers – So this might seem silly but you want to run your fingers along the surfaces. Go around the edges of the saucer, plate, and rims of the cup. Feel for any roughness and determine if it’s a crack or flaw. Check out the spout on those teapots – cracks or chips on the spout are a definite no go.
- Hand sanitizer – This business can be dusty and dirty – so make sure your hands are cleaned afterwards. Don’t be surprised if you feel a bit grimy.
DOWNLOAD My China Shopping Toolkit and Checklist
How do I know what to look for?
So this is extremely important. There are things you want to look for to make your investment, no matter how much or how little, reasonable for you. I buy things I like but I want them to be of good quality. So here are some definitions that are important for you to know.
Using your China Shopping Toolkit, examine for cracks, crazing, chips, defects. Some defects do not lower the value or use and in fact might be part of the production process. However, some do reflect damage and will help you determine the condition of the piece.
Here are some important items to look for
First examine the vintage china piece
- Visually inspect the outside and inside of the china.
- Run your finger around the edge of the piece. You are feeling for any roughness or chips on the piece. I do not purchase pieces that are chipped or have roughness on the edge.
If you are purchasing a teapot, make sure to examine the spout for any roughness or chips. You will frequently find this in vintage china. I do not purchase teapots with a damaged spout.
3. Examine the piece for crazing.
Crazing is the fine crackling one often sees on many glazed pottery pieces and on certain types of antique porcelain. Crazing is in the glaze and is not detectable when one rubs his or her fingernail over the crazing. Crazing generally does not affect the use of the item and is present in much Art pottery. I will purchase a piece with crazing on the outside or underside. YOU NEED TO DETERMINE IF IT IS EXCESSIVE AND SOMETHING YOU CAN LIVE WITH.
4. Inspect the piece for any cracks. Use your flashlight and magnifying glass. Run your finger over the crack to see if you feel it. I will not purchase a piece of vintage china with cracks.
A hairline crack is a crack that goes into or through the clay body and can be felt with a fingernail. In some instances, new collectors and less than reputable dealers will refer to hairlines as crazing. If the crack is into the clay and is detectable with a fingernail it is not crazing. VERY IMPORTANT TO DETERMINE
Example of crack on outside of teacup 
Example of crack on inside of teacup
Use your light to help determine if there are cracks. Or hold the item up to the light.
Using a flashlight to look for cracks 
Using natural light to look for cracks
5. Check for the factory mark
Impressed factory marks are a combination of numbers, letters and symbols in conjunction with identifying cartouche for a factory which identifies years of production and company of production. This information is helpful to establish the authenticity and history of the object. Sometimes you will purchase a piece without this marking which is fine but establishing its history will be difficult. Not all are this clear. I will occasionally purchase unmarked pieces. GENERALLY IMPORTANT TO HAVE ON PIECE
Other condition issues
A glaze chip is a chip that has occurred on the piece prior to firing and glazing. Factory glazed chips are not post-production chips that have been subsequently repaired and re-glazed. NOT AN ISSUE.
Glaze bubble or glaze pop occurs during the firing process when air bubbles reach the surface of the glaze and burst. NOT AN ISSUE.
Overglaze is a terminology used to describe any decoration that has been applied to a piece once it has been fired. Many times it has sponge gold, enamel colors which have been applied over transfer printed wares. NOT AN ISSUE
Peppering is the minute black specks (grit) of carbon that is sometimes seen in white or light colored glazes. Minor peppering does not usually adversely affect the value of piece. NOT AN ISSUE
Secondly determine the condition of the piece
Excellent condition
If there are no flaws, chips, cracks, discoloration/stains or repairs, the piece is considered to be in excellent condition.
Good condition
This generally means that the piece is in very presentable state and may have defects other than how it left the factory. It may have some minor discoloration, minor wear to gold gilding or sponge gold decoration, minor knife and fork scratches, minor restoration
Fair condition
Fair Condition is a terminology used to describe a piece that is not necessarily of great value due to its faults and damages which have occurred over the years but still has some collector and decorative value. Such pieces have been devalued due to damages such as chips, cracks, stains and unprofessional repairs.
Great condition
This is terminology that is usually reserved for a piece in very good shape that is free from major defects, cracks, stains or repairs. Minor surface patina, slight wear or minor surface scratching is acceptable but is worthy of mention when adding further description of condition.
Poor condition
Poor condition is not a terminology that is generally used by sellers or dealers when describing condition. However a piece may be for sale that is exactly in this condition. The reason for selling such a piece may be to preserve it for historical value or because it may be very rare or an only known example available to date.
“As is” condition
This condition is a description used once the seller has described as accurately as possible any problems with a piece. This is the final wording added to a description of condition to assure the buyer that there are some defects or problems and that the piece is being offered for sale at a lesser value than if the piece was in excellent or great condition. It is a phraseology used so that the buyer is not misled.
How do I know if I should purchase this piece of vintage china?
Ask yourself some of the following questions –
- Am I gifting the piece or using it for myself?
- Am I purchasing this for pleasure and just enjoy or will I be serving others with this piece. I have cups and teapots that I use just for myself. They might not be pristine in their condition, but I enjoy the item and am comfortable with that. If I am using an item for afternoon tea, I will want it to be in excellent condition. This doesn’t necessarily mean expensive.
- Do I enjoy the piece and I just like it? This might be enough for me to purchase a piece.
What I don’t accept in vintage china –
- Chips along the rim of a plate or cup.
- Chips in the spout of a teapot are also a no-no for me.
- Excessive crazing or crackling inside of a teapot or plate. I might consider one with crazing on the outside if light and limited but not if its in the inside.
- Cracking on the inside of a teapot or cup.
Where do I find vintage china?
Anywhere and everywhere! I have favorites in town that I honestly just like to browse because I find it relaxing to smell the antique dust as I say. There are places I know I can find things but they will cycle through as vendors change and things get sold and brought in. So just be aware that this is not always a static inventory.
I love to find different places as I travel (highlighting this in an upcoming blog). Though not quite vintage, you can find some pieces that you might enjoy at places like Home Goods, Tuesday Morning, Marshalls or TJ Maxx.
Online is also a great place to purchase vintage china – you need to be assured that the proprietor maintains the standard you are looking for – you won’t be able to touch and check out the item before purchasing. One of the best places is to go to estate sales where you might find great items that are for sale.
And once the word is out that you are enjoying vintage china, you might also have friends and family that will gift you on occasion. I am blessed with two sisters who love the hunt as I call it and I am frequently gifted with items from them (a great thing for me).
Okay, now grab your flashlight, get that magnifying glass, tuck the sanitizer in your pocket and get those hands ready. Have fun and enjoy the hunt!
Helpful tools
DOWNLOAD My China Shopping Toolkit and Checklist
RECOMMENDED READING – A great publication on antique and vintage china definitions and grading. https://www.passionforthepastantiques.com/articles/item/article/grading-antique-vintage-chinaware/
72 Comments
Pat Simoneaus
Great info and love the clarity on terminology.
Beth
Hi Barbara – well I have found it helpful along with the ever-popular toolkit. Thanks!
Jennifer
An interesting and informative post about shopping for vintage china and what to look for.
Beth
Hi Jennifer – thanks and glad that you enjoyed it.
Diane Kurzava
Your china is so beautiful! I have a complete set from my great aunt that I would love to display but have no room for. Seeing your lovely pieces makes me think I can, and should, at least take a few pieces out for display.
Beth
Hi Diane – thanks for your comment. Well I use my stuff everyday for me! I don’t want to miss enjoying it. So I would encourage you to take a few pieces you enjoy and use it. When I have guests come over, even if its just for a visit, I pull it out. When my daughter in law comes over, she likes to pick out a piece to use just for herself. You are certainly worth using it now. Enjoy!
Casandra
This is a very thorough, detailed post. I’ve been lucky to receive my grandmother’s china and I love to pull out my tea cups once in a while for afternoon tea. It never fails to put a smile on my face!
Beth
Hi Casandra – So glad that you enjoyed the article and if this makes you pull those pieces are more, then it was a success. I would encourage you to do that more often. I use my pieces all the time and encourage any visitors to choose as well. I figure better to use it now then to have it just packed away. So enjoy and thanks for your comment.
Lora Rovegna
I love almost anything vintage and china is so pretty. I wish I had a use for it. LOL!
Beth
Hi Lora – Yes vintage is fun for sure. Well of late, I don’t really have a use for it other than for me! And I do use these pieces all the time just for myself, as well as teas or guests. Thanks for your comment.
Debbie
Your china pieces are beautiful!
Beth
Hi Debbie – thanks so much. Glad that you enjoyed the view. I use them all the time, not just for teas or guests but for me.
Jill DeMasi
I have always been fascinated with vintage pieces. Thanks for sharing your expertise!
Beth
Hi Jill – not sure that its expertise but just want has worked for me. Like, purchasing something that I really shouldn’t have and have it break. In any case, I enjoy the hunt and certainly the purchase and use them all the time. Thanks so much for your comment.
Christina
Wow, so much great information on looking for great pieces of china here! Thanks for the info.
Beth
Hi Christina – thanks and glad that you enjoyed the post.
jen
i’ve really been wanting to start a vintage tea collection so i think this article was great! When I venture out I’ll be sure to bring my tools!
Beth
Hi Jen – well this is just great for sure! I started my collection ages ago by just wandering antique and vintage shops basically to have some alone time. I enjoyed the hunt, found thinking about the stories intriguing and then of course the china. These tools were developed out of mistakes and lessons I have learned the hard way. So hoping it will help you when you can venture out and start your own hunt. Enjoy and thanks so much for your comments. Made my blogging day!
Lisa Manderino
These are very helpful! It is good to know where to start!
Beth
Hi Lisa – So glad that you found them helpful. It can be hard to know where to start but its all in fun and adventure. Hope you do have a chance to try out the tools. Thanks for your comment.
Jordan
I had no idea there was such a process for recognizing true vintage china. Thank you for sharing your tips.
Beth
Hi Jordan – Well I am a process person but also, these tools come from lessons learned and mistakes in china purchases. Thank you for your comment and glad that you enjoyed the post.
Hillari
Wow, this is such a unique post! I have never thought about collecting vintage tea sets but I found this so interesting 🙂
Beth
Hi Hillari – thanks so much for your comments and glad that you enjoyed the post. Not only do I collect vintage pieces, but I also like to use them frequently – not just for teas or my guests, but also for myself. An inexpensive pamper that in these days can be very relaxing. And its just fun! thanks.
Tara
You showcased so many beautiful pieces in your photographs! I have a real obsession with vintage dishes so I especially love your suggestions!
Beth
Hi Tara – Thank you so much for your comments. Yes, I love vintage china. I use mine all the time as well. Glad that you enjoyed the post. Enjoy your china!
Cindy
I have not had tea china in my house given rambunctious children. I do love going to a great tea house and enjoying a cup out of one of these beauties though.
Beth
Hi Cindy – Thanks for your comments. I completely understand as I have 6 grandchildren and they are over all the time, anywhere from 2 to 7 years. I have been blessed that they have not bothered them – yet (key word for sure). That’s kind of the beauty with vintage – valuable to me, but not expensive (or at least the ones that I have around). Hope you have a chance to enjoy some tea in a cup – sounds like it would be a great time for you. Thanks again.
Kimberly
This is just the write-up I needed to read! I, too, enjoy collecting vintage teacups and saucers, but I was too afraid, out of my own ignorance, to purchase some pieces I really liked. Now I know what to look for! It’s so fun to find a fellow aficionada! Happy Tea Tasting, my friend!
Beth
Hi Kimberly – Your comment made me smile this morning. Yes – we are like sisters across the tea cups haha. These are techniques that have come from years of hunting and buying and then finding out maybe I shouldn’t have….but its all good. Along with my sisters (who I am blessed to have be part of this), its great fun. And to know you found this helpful is like the best. Thanks so much!
jody
Thank you for sharing
Beth
Hi Jody – Thanks for your comment.
April Key
Wow, you are an expert in this matter. I can sense your love of Vintage China and how you enjoy collecting and shopping for these. The one you have are all so pretty designs. Thank you for sharing with us your technique.
Beth
Hi April – Thanks for your comment. I do enjoy doing this. And probably the outcome to me, which either gifting it out or having people use the china and have delight while they have tea. I know – its kind of a crazy place at times, but its me and fun. Would you believe that I have absolutely no repeats in all my cups? And to think there are that many out there amazes me as well. Take care.
Lora
My sister in law collects vintage China! Now i know what she goes through to get good pieces.
Beth
Hi Lora – well I feel like this helps me enjoy the piece and kind of protects whatever the investment (which for me is not a lot). Thanks for your comment and good hunting to your sister-in-law!
Anna
I just love your article. It is so close to me because for quite a long time my husband and I were in a business of reselling china. We were actually official dealers of Royal Doulton, Wedgwood and Waterford. I am sure you know these companies. And OMG! This Chintz plate is absolutely amazing. I would not even care for those crazing on the bottom.
Thank you for sharing this information. It is very valuable when comes to buying a real authentic, great quality china.
Beth
Hi Anna – I am honored at your comments. And yes, absolutely know the china you mentioned (drooling here). Yes, isn’t that little
Chintz plate amazing. I don’t mind the crazing at all if its on the underside – so much Chintz seems to have it (or at least where I am shopping). And the price to me clearly indicated someone didn’t know. Its been so fun to do this over the years and learn, this information is certainly from some of my mistakes. Well again appreciate your comment. Thanks!
Holly
Wow Beth, I just love this! I do a lot of antique shopping and this is very helpful!! Thank you so much!
Beth
Hi Holly – so glad that you found this helpful. Its from my own mistakes and sharing with my sisters, who I am blessed to have along with me at times. Appreciate your comment and glad to hear you are a fellow hunter! Ha. Take care.
Tricia Snow
I love fine china! Thanks for the tips to find it and what to look for!
Beth
Hi Tricia – Thanks for your comment and glad that you found the information helpful.
Tiffany
Oh, the flashlight tip – LOVE THIS! Never thought to do this. I love seeing teacups and saucers at estate sales and never know if they would even be worth anything (other than my own enjoyment) and really going to keep this handy once we start hitting the estate sales again!
Beth
Hi Tiffany – so glad that you found the article helpful. Yes – the little flashlight is a game changer. My daughter always chuckles because when we are out and she sees me reaching in my purse, she knows what’s coming out! And ever for your own enjoyment is a great reason to purchase (and so many others). Like you, can’t wait to hit the sales again as well. Take care and thanks.
Pauline
I have a little china collection. I started it when I was about six when I would go yard along with my mom. These are all excellent tips.
Beth
Hi Pauline – What a precious memory. I still have my first teacup and tea set from my mom. My daughter has one as well. Great treasures. Glad that you enjoyed the post. Thanks so much for your comment. And keep that china shopping going on! Enjoy.
judean
This was very informative and interesting enough, kept my attention! I do not have china nor search for it but I found this very insightful. I recently went to a wedding where teapots and teacups were the decorations and favors – if I would have read this first, I would have probably started looking at it all to see if it was good vintage china!
Beth
Hi Judean – thanks for your comments and that is very funny about the wedding. Well I buy things that are not excellent in their condition, just because I like them. Just think of the conversations you’ll be able to start…like “Did you see the crazing on that dish?” You made me smile thinking about it. Glad that you enjoyed the post. Thanks again.
Suzan | It's My Sustainable Life
Thank you for demystifying the process!
Beth
Hi Suzan – you are quite welcome. Thanks
Junell DuBois
Very interesting. My great aunt used to collect tea cups and I always thought it was the pretties collection.
Beth
Hi Junell – glad that you enjoyed it. And so sweet that you have these memories of your great aunt’s collection. Thanks for your comment.
Charlotte
I love all of yours posts and find them so interesting! I hadn’t planned on shopping for antique China, but now I want to!
Beth
Hi Charlotte – Thanks so much for your kind comment and feedback. I really appreciate it. And glad that you found it interesting for sure. I hope you have a chance soon to check out some teacups and have some fun. Take care and thanks.
Jason Gowin
A wonderful, very detailed and informative piece. Unfortunately due to having such small…and very destructive children at home it will be several years before we can bring anything so beautiful and delicate into our home.
Beth
Hi Jason – thanks for your comment. Yes, I am sure it would be a challenge. My son has two sets of twins who are under 4 and though they do very well, its a challenge….and time will tell. Appreciate your feedback. Thanks.
Denise
My mother has tons of China and this was really helpful and very useful to know, thank you for sharing this excellent info I appreciate it 👍
Beth
Hi Denise – Thanks so much for your comments. And that your mother has china – how fun is that. And very glad that you found the post helpful. Thanks.
Kendra
Fascinating! What a fun collecting adventure!
Beth
Hi Kendra – yes, it has been for sure. Thanks for your comment.
Cathy
This is a great reference guide! I love looking for treasures at yard sales & flea markets.. I’m going to bookmark this so I can look at it again and again! Thanks!
Beth
Hi Cathy – Thanks so much for your comments. Yes I am anxious to get back out there again. I am delighted that you found it helpful.
Robin
All of this is so interesting! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Beth
Hi Robin – Thanks and glad that you enjoyed the post.
Sandi
Holly, great post. I have lots of vintage china from my mother in law. I should take it out of storage.
Beth
Hi Sandi – Yes, definitely. I use my cups and china all the time. With the exception of holiday related items, they are out for guests, familiy and me! Thanks and glad that you enjoyed the post.
Stephanie
I am sitting here wondering why I never thought of the difference between vintage and antique. And these look so beautiful. I love how there is so much care into creating these pieces.
Beth
Hi Stephanie – I love to think of the stories behind the cups. And yes, the workmanship. Even the marks on the bottom mean something and that’s always kind of the story. Thanks for your comments and glad that you enjoyed the post.
Cora
This was very interesting to read!! Now I know what to look for next time I’m thrifting. 🙂
Beth
Hi Cora – Absolutely. Hope this was helpful and glad that you enjoyed the post. Yes…it should help when you are thrifting for sure. Thanks for your comment.
Cindy
I love vintage China and linens! This is great info for purchasing high quality pieces.
Beth
Hi Cindy – Thanks for your comments. Glad that you enjoyed the post.