Jadeite Dishes Are Making a Comeback — Here’s What You Need to Know About This Trend
Plus, where to get jadeite dishes for less than $10!
Deanna Kelly
As far as we’re concerned, the dishes you choose to plate your food on can offer a lot more than pragmatism. Depending on their material, color or shape, they can make something as simple as reheated leftovers feel downright fancy. And, thanks to the resurgence of jadeite dishes, the rest of your dinnerware can match all the trending green cookware hitting shelves right now. Though manufacturing stopped in the 1970s, we’ve recently seen jadeite dishes everywhere (from our social media feeds to antique e-tailers like Chairish) — and it begs the question: Why are jadeite dishes having a major comeback now? For Noel Fahden, VP of Merchandising at Chairish, it’s a welcome blast from the past.
Made of opaque milk glass in a fabulous shade of jade green, jadeite dishes first burst onto the foodie scene back in the 1940s. “Glassware manufacturer Anchor Hocking launched a line of milk glass wares under the name ‘Fire-King,’” explains Noel Fahden, VP of Merchandising at Chairish. “It was first designed in shapes that were made for easy stacking in refrigerators with lids — making them a staple of 20th century restaurants and hospitality establishments, and not to mention in most homes.”
“It’s really about a very specific moment in time and feels very nostalgic, while still being something that can be collected or incorporated into dinnerware of any style,” she shares. “You can get everything from jadeite citrus juicers, to mixing bowls and cake stands.” Fahden points out that the shade is also having a moment — Benjamin Moore even dubbed a pale green as its 2022 Color of the Year — making the jadeite phenomenon on-trend. But, while jadeite dishes might have plenty of photogenic appeal, they’re practical, too. “Jadeite is fairly durable, which is why there are so many vintage pieces on the market now that look good as new,” she shares. Original jadeite might not be dishwasher- or microwave-friendly, but Fahden says you can clean and care for them just as you would any other dinnerware set.
Want to pick up your own jadeite? The good news if you have no shortage of options. Since Anchor Hocking no longer makes jadeite dishes, you’ll likely find these collectibles at antique stores or websites. However, a handful of modern retailers have begun stocking their own take on the trend, making it even easier to start your own collection.
According to Reyne Hirsch, author and former PBS Antiques Roadshow expert, jadeite can be surprisingly affordable. “Anywhere from $5 for a saucer or fruit bowl to thousands for teardrop nesting mixing bowls,” she says. “There is something for every collector's budget.”
To help streamline your search, we’ve found six jadeite gems worth adding to your cart.
If you want an entire set of jadeite dishes, Food52 is a great place to start. Right now, the retailer is stocking its virtual shelves with a bevy of bowls, plates and mugs from Mosser Glass. Dinner party, anyone?
Though jadeite is commonly found in dish form, you can also snag some green tumblers. Whether you’re enjoying some ice water or a fresh glass of juice, this set will have you sipping pretty.
You don’t need to spend top dollar — or replace the entire contents of your kitchen cabinets — to enjoy this trend. Instead, you can simply pick up TableCraft’s spoon rest, a small touch that’s available for less than $10.
Regardless of your culinary expertise, a great set of mixing bowls is essential for every home chef. And, thanks to this option from Crate & Barrel, your behind-the-scenes work can look just as appetizing as the final result.
Speaking of mixing bowls, this spacious option will be a budding baker’s dream. The magic lies in the subtle spout, which is perfect for distributing cake batter.
Dessert, anyone? Take your confections to new heights (literally) with this well-appointed cake stand. This sweet style will look great topped with a fresh meringue cake.
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