Tiffany & Co. vs Macy's for 2024 | Best China Dinnerware Stores

Item: Tiffany & Co. vs Macy's
Rating: 3
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Tuesday, December 3rd

2024 China Dinnerware Store Reviews

Tiffany & Co.

In business since 1837
High-end china dinnerware and serveware
Complimentary shipping and returns (within 30 days)
Concierge assistance on demand
"A+” rated and accredited by the BBB

Tiffany & Co., known as Tiffany's, is a renowned American luxury brand founded in 1837 in New York City. Famous for its exceptional jewelry, elegant timepieces, and high-end accessories, Tiffany's has become a symbol of timeless sophistication and exquisite craftsmanship. Shopping for Tiffany's china dinnerware offers exclusivity but with limited design choices. Buyers must assemble sets piece by piece, but Tiffany's customer service includes concierge assistance and complimentary delivery. As you'd expect, Tiffany's holds an "A+" rating and BBB accreditation. Tiffany's china dinnerware suits those enamored with the brand's allure, but those seeking diverse high-end china options as well as a seamless online shopping experience should consider other brands and retailers.

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Macy's

In business since 1858
Competitively priced on 30+ major brands
Can buy online and pick up in-store
Free shipping on orders of $49+
"A+” rated by the BBB

Macy's, with over 150 years in business, offers a diverse selection of china dinnerware. They feature nearly 40 brands, including Royal Copenhagen, Vera Wang Wedgwood, American Atelier, and Mikasa, at competitive prices that often rival brand websites and plenty of complementary pieces to go along with your setting. Macy's stands out with the convenience of online ordering and in-store pickup, especially for last-minute needs. Unfortunately, Macy's customer service for online orders has faced criticism, with numerous complaints regarding undelivered orders, refund difficulties, and unresponsive representatives. While Macy's offers competitive prices, we recommend that you consider other options before making your purchase decision , especially if you value rivals' perks like free breakage replacement and generous return policies, as well as responsive customer service.

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The 10 Best China Dinnerware Stores

Lenox

Wayfair

Mikasa

Noritake

Tiffany & Co.

Bed Bath & Beyond

Macy's

Wedgwood

OKA

Oneida

Where Can You Get the Best Selection of Fine China Dinnerware?

China dinnerware, often referred to simply as "china," is a type of fine porcelain or ceramic dinnerware that has been cherished for centuries for its elegance and timeless beauty. Despite the changing trends in dining and tableware, china dinnerware remains popular for several reasons.

First, china dinnerware is renowned for its delicate and refined appearance. The intricate patterns, often featuring floral or geometric designs, exude a sense of timeless beauty that enhances any dining experience. The delicate translucency of fine china also adds to its charm. But, while china may seem delicate, it is actually quite durable when properly cared for. High-quality china can last for generations, making it an excellent investment.

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What are the best China Dinnerware Stores

China Dinnerware Store FAQ

What is china dinnerware?

Despite the name, the plates, bowls, cups and saucers aren't necessarily made in China - although that's why delicate dinnerware was originally given the name of "china”. There are two main types of dinnerware referred to as china, porcelain and bone. Bone china is created in a similar process as porcelain, but an extra ingredient (bone ash) is used when making it. This bone ash gives the final product a milkier white color.

So, which is better: bone china or porcelain?

That depends on your preferences. Bone china has a more delicate look and feel, to the point of being almost translucent. Porcelain colors are often brighter, the whites are whiter, and so on. Either one can make your dinner table look beautiful!

Why is china dinnerware often more expensive than dishes made from other materials?

It takes a much higher temperature to fire china dinnerware. Those high temperatures make it more likely that a dish or bowl won't survive the firing process - making the ones that do come out perfectly a more expensive final product.

Can I put my china dinnerware in the microwave (or oven)?

Read the printed materials that came with your dinnerware to determine if it can be used in the oven or microwave. You may also be able to find that information on the bottom of the plate, bowl, or cup itself. If your china has any metal accents, like a gold design or platinum band around the edge, DO NOT use it in the oven or microwave!

Is my china dishwasher-safe?

If you are using your great-grandmother's china that came over from England, it's probably best to wash it by hand using a gentle dish detergent and warm water. On the other hand, newer china is often made for the rigors of today's day-to-day life, including being washable in the dishwasher. Again, check the information provided about your china or look on the bottom of the dinnerware to see if it has been designated as dishwasher-safe.

Do people still put china dinnerware on wedding registries?

Although it's not as common on gift registries now as it was in the past, china dinnerware still catches the eye of many engaged couples. It's fun to have a set of "nice” dishes for the first Thanksgiving meal together or for entertaining dinner guests. Plus, with many people embracing the idea of "you only live once”, china dinnerware is often found in everyday use.

Why should I consider buying my china dinnerware online?

Where else will you find the world's best selection of brands, patterns, and pieces of china? Local retailers often carry an extremely limited inventory of china, and they may not have enough on hand for the number of full place settings you want. Getting your dinnerware directly from the manufacturer or from an online home goods store ensures that you can get exactly what you're looking for, delivered safely to your doorstep.

China dinnerware is heavy. Will shipping be expensive?

Probably not. Many china retailers want to earn your business, so you'll often find free shipping offers with a certain minimum purchase amount. You may also spot discounts on your purchase that can make it even more affordable to get the dishes you've been dreaming of.

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Also, many people reserve their china dinnerware for special occasions like holidays, anniversaries, and celebrations. Using it during these moments adds a sense of tradition and significance to the event. Of course, you can always live like every day is special, because china can be suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual family dinners to formal gatherings. Its versatility allows you to create different table settings to suit various events and moods.

Finally, collecting china dinnerware has been a popular hobby for many. Some patterns and brands have become highly sought-after collectibles, with enthusiasts scouring antique shops and auctions for rare pieces. The sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand daily use and occasional accidents.

However, when you're out shopping for china dinnerware at your local stores, you might notice that your options are a bit limited. Those big-box retailers usually stock just a couple of brands and a handful of patterns. So, if you want to match your china with your home decor or you have a particular brand in mind, turning to online stores is your best bet. They tend to have a wider selection, often at better prices.

Online shops make it super easy and fun to find the perfect china for you. They've usually got handy filters and clear images of each plate, cup, bowl, and saucer. The only tricky part might be trying to pick just one pattern from all the gorgeous options they offer!

Ready to get shopping? Here are some ways to narrow down the options as you search for your perfect china dinnerware:

Design and pattern. Choose a style that appeals to your personal taste and complements your existing tableware or decor. Consider whether you want a classic, traditional pattern or a more contemporary design.
Brand reputation. Research the reputation of the brand you're considering. Established brands with a long history of producing quality china are often a safe bet. Read customer reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family who own china dinnerware.
Use and maintenance. Check if the china dinnerware is safe to use in the microwave and oven if you intend to heat or reheat food in them. Also research how easy it is to clean and maintain. Some patterns or brands may be dishwasher-safe, while others require hand washing.
Completeness and availability. If you plan to use your china dinnerware regularly, ensure that the set you're purchasing includes all the essential pieces you need, such as dinner plates, salad plates, cups, saucers, and serving pieces. Check if replacement pieces are readily available in case of breakage, and if you can get those replacements free of charge or at a reduced cost.

Whether for everyday use or special occasions, the right china dinnerware can elevate your table settings and create lasting memories. To help you find the best patterns and settings, the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have evaluated and ranked today's most popular brands and retailers. Your table will be picture-perfect in no time!