Bone china is a type of porcelain was originally formulated in England in the seventeenth century as invention inspired by the fine porcelains that were being produced in China. Bone china consists of the normal mix of ingredients such as kaolin that make up porcelain, but with addition of bone ash (crushed bone powder usually made from cattle or other animal carcasses) hence its name.

Bone china is known for being highly translucent and brittle in relation to strength and durability. It has a characteristic bone ivory coloring and is one of the hardest forms of porcelain made. It’s these fine qualities that make it a perfect material for tea pots and tea pot sets for afternoon or formal service.

Bone china tea pots are constructed basically like any other ceramic tea pot in design, size and shape. Although bone china is very strong, it is not to be heated over a direct flame. As a result, bone china teapots are for steeping and serving hot tea beverages exclusively.

The décor on bone china tea pots are either hand painted on by a master artist or printed with enamel paint for mass produced works. Even pieces created using a transfer print type of artwork are sought after by antique collectors for their delicate design and craftsmanship of fine porcelain.

Bone china tea pots are known for being delicate and having an abundance of ornate details. Care and caution should be exercised in handling because of bone china’s propensity for chipping and cracking.