Just as there are many manufacturers of fine bone china, as shown in Part I, there are also hundreds of patterns, some more popular than others. Each can convey an atmosphere from one reminiscent of those Buckingham Palace tea times in the days of Queen Victoria to more modern styles.

Some Pattern Names to Note

China pattern names number in the hundreds. Some come out of the imagination of the designer, others from the mind of a marketing or ad guru, and still others as tributes to certain people or things. Lady Diana Chintz from the English Heirloom Collection is a good example, honoring Lady Di, former Princess of Wales. It is made in England, with an all-over pattern in lovely pastel colors featuring pink roses and green leaves.

The English Heirloom Collection of fine bone china brings together patterns that have been standards for years and whose appeal never seems to wane:

• English Cottage — A lovely pattern that features the English countryside and makes a lovely view on your table at tea time! Made in England.
• Forget Me Not — A popular pattern featuring a flower that symbolizes “remember me forever” (obviously). Made in England.
• Lady Diana — Made in England and stunningly beautiful! These pieces boast an all-over pattern in lovely pastel colors featuring pink roses. Chintz is a printed calico from India or a usually glazed printed cotton fabric and known for a very full floral pattern.
• Lily of the Valley — A beautiful pattern with striking detail. The Lily of the Valley signifies the return to happiness.
• Linnea — The pattern features pairs of delicate pink Linnea bells on slender vibrant green stems. The flower was first identified in Lapland in northern Sweden in 1732 by explorer Carl Linnaeus.
• Pansy — Features vibrant, dark purple pansies that add the perfect floral touch to your afternoon tea. The flower signifies “loving thoughts.”
• Pansy Chintz — Another chintz, this time featuring pansies. Pansy lovers will adore it!
• Romantic Rose — Nothing beats roses for romance, and each piece boasts a pretty pattern of tiny pink ones. Made in England.
• Scatter Rose — Simply a beautiful pattern and shape, boasting a pretty pattern of tiny pink rose blooms. Made in England.
• Shamrock — This pattern features a white background covered with a pretty shamrock pattern. Made in England of fine bone china.
• Summertime Rose — A lovely pattern of pink and red roses. Made in England.
• Violets — Violets stand for faithfulness. And you’ll have a faithful tea time when serving from these teawares.

Patterns Using Precious Metals

Trimming fine bone china with gold, silver, and more recently platinum lends that extra touch of elegance to your dinner table. Not to mention an extra glimmer or two!

• Wedgwood Signet Platinum Fine Bone China — A beautifully simple yet elegant design, featuring a pure white background and platinum trimming. Mix and match with other dinnerwares to add a touch of elegance.
• Wedgwood Precious Platinum Fine Bone China, Royal Doulton Collection — A classic pattern updated with modern design details and oozing with elegance.
• Wedgwood Harlequin Cuckoo Fine Bone China —Skillfully made using fine bone china and including a burnished gold edge line; expertly designed and finished to the highest quality.
• Wedgwood Sterling Fine Bone China — Classical shapes and modern sensibilities characterize the stylish, yet practical teaware. Timeless elegance that will look crisp and contemporary for many years to come.

Getting Those Extra Pieces

Did you splurge and buy a bone china teapot years ago and now want some teacups and saucers to go with it? What about a sugar/creamer set or some dessert plates? Or maybe you broke a piece and need a replacement? You can usually purchase patterns by the piece. And if you can’t find the piece you want today, keep checking back. Most vendors get additional pieces in on a regular basis.

See also Teapot Styles — Bone China Beauties

See more of A.C. Cargill’s articles here.

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