Earthenware vs. Stoneware: Choosing the right pottery for your home
The Beauty Behind the Clay
If you’ve ever browsed pottery, decorative vases or jugs, you’ve likely seen the terms earthenware and stoneware — often side by side, and often without much explanation.
But what do they really mean, and does it matter which you choose for your home?
Absolutely. Knowing the difference helps you choose pieces that not only complement your interior style but also last beautifully for years to come. This guide breaks down the key distinctions between the two — so you can shop (and style) with confidence.
What Is Earthenware?
Earthenware is where pottery began. Used across ancient Mediterranean cultures for thousands of years, it’s made from natural clay and fired at lower temperatures than stoneware. The result is a porous material with a soft, organic character — full of warmth and charm.
Its tactile quality gives it that beloved, hand-crafted appeal, perfect for interiors that favour texture and authenticity.
Key features of earthenware:
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Soft, matte or rustic finish
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Earthy, artisanal aesthetic
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Ideal for decorative pieces — vases, jugs, bowls and display pottery
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Slightly more delicate — best suited for styling, not heavy daily use
✨ Style it:
Place a sculptural earthenware jug on your console, a terracotta vase on open shelving, or group smaller bowls on a sideboard for a casual, collected look.
Perfect for:
Homes that celebrate imperfection, Mediterranean textures and handmade beauty.
What Is Stoneware?
Stoneware shares earthenware’s natural roots but takes it one step further in strength and versatility. It’s fired at much higher temperatures, creating a denser, semi-vitrified surface that’s both durable and water-resistant.
While it retains that handcrafted character, stoneware has a smoother, weightier feel — ideal for both decorative and functional use.
Key features of stoneware:
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More robust and resilient than earthenware
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Semi-matte to gently glossy finish
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Often dishwasher-safe or suitable for everyday use
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Perfect for statement vases, large bowls, and even outdoor styling
✨ Style it:
Use tall stoneware vases for greenery or dried pampas, or opt for glazed bowls and pitchers that double as dining and display pieces.
Perfect for:
Homes that value easy maintenance, longevity and understated sophistication.
Which Should You Choose for Your Home?
It really comes down to lifestyle and look.
Choose Earthenware If:
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You love the charm of imperfect, hand-made textures
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You’re drawn to Mediterranean or rustic styles
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You want to add warmth, depth and natural texture
Choose Stoneware If:
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You prefer sleek, versatile pieces that last
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You need durability for busy homes
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You lean towards refined, modern minimalism
Both have their place — many designers mix the two for balance: earthenware for artistry, stoneware for practicality.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to the earthy texture of earthenware or the refined durability of stoneware, pottery is more than decor — it’s history and craftsmanship shaped into form.
The right piece can transform a corner, elevate a shelf, or add soul to a modern space.
Bring effortless, natural elegance into your home with our Pottery Collection, designed to age beautifully and style seamlessly.