Fiesta Ware

Posted by Kristin Abraham Feb 22, 2008

Do you love Fiesta ware as much as I do? If you're thinking about adding some color and fun to your kitchen there is nothing better than Fiesta ware whether you're looking for the antique variety or the post-1986 modern variety.

Fiesta ware was designed by Frederick Hurten Rhead and was introduced to the American market by Homer Laughlin in 1936. The first line came in five different colors, Red (which looks orangish), Blue, Yellow, Green and Ivory. The extremely popular Turquoise color wasn't introduced until a year later.

My favorite plate, the divided plate (so your foods don't have to touch) was discontinued in 1936 so if you're looking for a turquoise divided plate you're either going to find a knockoff or you're going to be completely out of luck.

If you're looking for a rare and collectible Fiesta ware piece the scour the flea markets and antique stores for the turquoise covered onion soup bowl. These bowls were also discontinued but after a few were released in turquoise.

The ink stamp that proclaims "Genuine Fiesta" was actually not on the very first pieces so if you find what appears to be an original piece don't fret if the stamp is missing. The molded identification labels came later and were modified so you will want to research the slight variations.

The post 1986 Fiesta ware versions are obviously not as valuable as the originals, but they're just as attractive and it's much easier to find a complete set.