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Thursday, January 23rd
Lenox, a brand deeply rooted in American heritage, has been a household name for over a century. With a wide-ranging selection of homewares and collectibles, Lenox offers everything from personalized Christmas ornaments to elegant picture frames and exquisite vases.
World-renowned reputation
And of course, the company is world-renowned for their extensive dinnerware collection, which encompasses a variety of materials. Some tof these include ironstone, porcelain, stoneware, and the coveted bone china. In fact, this esteemed brand has had the honor of being featured in the White House, where custom-made Lenox tableware graced the tables of six U.S. presidents.
Several brands of china to choose from
What makes Lenox even more enticing is its expanded brand family, which includes Kate Spade New York, Dansk, Cambridge, Hampton Forge, Reed & Barton, and most recently, Oneida (a brand you'll find reviewed separately on our list). When you browse for dinnerware, you'll discover these sister brands in your results list if they too offer china. If one of them catches your eye, you can easily filter your search to display only items from that brand. Lenox also provides convenient filters like color, features, and collections to help you narrow down your choices.
Everything from fun to formal
The sheer possibilities seem endless when it comes to Lenox's fine china dinnerware. From whimsical and playful patterns to luxurious and formal designs, this brand caters to a wide spectrum of tastes. For those who appreciate something floral and fun, the Sprig & Vine pattern is a delightful choice, while the Westmore pattern offers a more classic and formal feel.
Easy to see multiple color options
Many of Lenox's collections offer an array of color options. For instance, the appropriately-named Bay Colors set was available in four different colors at the time of this review, and the Kate Spade Willow Drive collection offered options in cream, grey, and blue. Conveniently, you can view these color options right on the results page. Plus, there's a handy heart button on every thumbnail image, allowing you to save your favorites (though, trust us, narrowing down your choices can be a pleasant challenge).
Plenty of information for each piece
Once you find a china pattern that captures your heart, you'll see more details when you click on the individual product page. Use the dropdown box to select your preferred set options and adjust the quantity as needed. This flexibility ensures you get precisely the number of place settings you require, avoiding the hassle of buying more or less than necessary. The "More Information" section provides detailed product specifications, including size and capacity. Don't forget to scroll down to discover companion items that pair well with your chosen pattern.
Not made in the USA now
One thing to mention is that in 2022, Lenox closed its last remaining American manufacturing facility. So, while the company remains U.S.-based, their current dinnerware no longer bears the "Made in the USA" label. You may still find china dinnerware in stock (in older patterns) that retains that designation, but anticipate seeing a shift in their inventory reflecting this change.
Several ways to save
Signing up for Lenox's email list comes with a great perk: a 15% discount on your next order. Keep an eye out for this offer as you explore the website. And here's some more good news: Lenox offers free shipping on all orders totaling $75 or more, with no need for a coupon code.
Generous return policy
In terms of their return policy, Lenox provides a generous 120-day window for returns on all new and unused china dinnerware. While you're responsible for the return shipping costs, exceptions are made for defective, damaged, broken, or incorrect items.
Exceptional breakage replacement coverage
Better yet, Lenox updated its Breakage Replacement Program in 2020. Whereas before you would only get a 50% discount on replacing that plate that you broke when it was slippery in the sink or the bowl that didn't quite make it into the cabinet without hitting the granite countertop, now Lenox will replace it for free. There are some requirements, though: you'll need to register your china dinnerware when you buy it (you can do that right on the website after you place your order), you'll need to submit a photo of the broken china, and it has to be specifically in the Lenox brand line (not Oneida or Kate Spade, for example). Still, even with those tiny hoops to jump through, Lenox's guarantee is phenomenal.
Excellent reputation
With over 130 years in operation, Lenox has earned its fair share of recognition, including an "A+” from the Better business Bureau. Customers consistently praise the unmatched quality of Lenox china, noting its elegant yet practical attributes. Comments like "microwave-safe metal accents," "dishwasher-safe bone china," and "chip-resistant and durable yet delicate" are just some of the accolades we found.
Best overall retailer and brand of china dinnerware
It's easy to see why Lenox remains our top choice among stores offering fine china dinnerware. Their user-friendly website makes shopping a breeze, offering a wide selection of beautiful plates, dishes, and cups designed to last for decades of memorable dining occasions. Furthermore, Lenox continues to uphold its reputation for excellent customer service, demonstrated by its upgrade to the breakage replacement program and maintaining a generous return policy. Whether you opt for china representing the epitome of formality or a fun holiday-themed or Disney pattern, you'll take pleasure in seeing Lenox grace your table. With reason, Lenox is our most highly recommended store for 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.
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:
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!
Select any 2 China Dinnerware Stores to compare them head to head