Stoneware or earthenware

Apparently, both are microwave and dishwasher safe, and heavier and harder than porcelain.

However, stoneware appears to be the better of the two due to several factors : water tight, chip-resistant, has a textured feel, can withstand high / low temperature, oven-safe and generally heavier and harder, making it less ready to break.

Earthenware, on the other hand, cannot hold water (although most nowadays come with a waterproof glazed surface), chips easily, has an off-white colour, feels chalky, cannot withstand temperature, and not oven-safe. It contains some impurities, making it fragile and absorbent.

Of course, these details were taken off the Seeleys website about pottery art. I'm particularly interested in these details at the moment because I'm trying to choose a set of tableware for the new house. The Bed Bath and Beyond website (yeah, the same store featured in Click starring Adam Sandler) lists tableware according to grade, from good to best : earthenware, stoneware, porcelain, fine china, bone china. Obviously, porcelain onwards is not an option, judging from the prices in Jusco.

Apparently, too, stainless steel knives with a high carbon content tend to stay sharper longer and are easily sharpened when needed.

Okay, that's all the housewife knowledge acquired today. Stay tuned for another upcoming lesson. "Creating A Home" is a life-lesson in progress.