The world of tableware is defined by heritage, innovation, and regional craftsmanship. From the historic kilns of Europe to the precision engineering of Japan, this dictionary curates the stories and specialties of the world's most prestigious manufacturers.

Europe remains the heart of luxury tableware, known for establishing the global standards for fine china and crystal.

• Wedgwood
  Established in 1759, the pioneer of Jasperware and world-renowned fine bone china.
• Royal Doulton
  Famous for quintessential British dinnerware and collectible figurines.

• Hermès
  Luxury lifestyle brand known for bold, artistic porcelain patterns.
• Baccarat
  The “King of Crystal,” producing some of the world's finest glassware since 1764.
• Christofle
  The gold standard for French silver-plated and sterling silver flatware.

• Meissen
  The first European hard-paste porcelain manufacturer (est. 1710).
• Villeroy & Boch
  A giant in lifestyle ceramics, blending classic heritage with modern design.
• Riedel
  The Austrian glassmaker that revolutionized wine tasting with varietal-specific stemware.

• Noritake
  Renowned for high-quality bone china and introducing Western-style dinnerware to Asia.
• Narumi
  A leader in high-content bone china, known for its extreme whiteness and durability.

• Lenox
  The only American manufacturer of fine bone china, often used in the White House.

— How to Use This Dictionary

1. Identify Backstamps: Each brand page includes a guide to identifying authentic markings.
2. Heritage vs. Modern: Learn which brands still manufacture in their home countries versus those that have moved production.

[Image of various famous tableware brand logos and backstamps]