Encrusted porcelain, or porcelain that has been etched and then decorated with layers of gold or platinum, is made of the same ingredients--clay (kaolin), crushed rock (petuntse), and water--as other porcelains, but it is subjected to acid baths, numerous firings, and agate or sanguine stone burnishings. The result is a jewellike quality that is unparalleled.
Encrustation is a painstaking process and patterns are often limited and expensive. But for those who desire a table that truly shines, encrusted porcelain is the perfect accompaniment. If you're interested in collecting encrusted porcelain, keep these things in mind:
Patience is a virtue: It can take as long as a week to complete one plate. Full place settings usually take a minumum of 3 months to complete. If you're willing to pay the often exorbitant prices for such fine dinnerware, you'll expect perfection.
Companies that stock encrusted porcelain have limited patterns available: Most encrustation is produced on a custom basis, so you can add monograms or logos and bring in color swatches to have pieces manufactured to your demands.
These plates are not dishwasher safe: Clean them carefully by hand, and store them in a safe place where they will not become scratched.
If you choose to buy encrusted porcelain, enjoy it: These beautiful pieces are meant to be seen and appreciated, and they can make even the humblest of dishes more palatable.
Sources:
M=manufacturer or distributor
Haviland (M), 800/476-4800
A. Raynaud & Co. (M), through DeVine Corporation, 732/751-0500
Robert Haviland & C. Parlon (M), through Lalique (M), 212/684-6760
Bernardaud (M), 800/884-7775
Cristal Saint-Louis (M), 800/238-5522
