Among the most popular varieties to choose from in deciding on ceramic tableware for restaurants, hotels, or other commercial outlets, Bone China vs Porcelain can be particularly challenging. Each of these types has its peculiar features, advantages, and suitable areas of use. As a professional ceramics tableware manufacturer and supplier, Lianyuan will guide you through the differences to help you make the right choice for your business.
Bone China VS Porcelain: What’s the Essential Difference?
The essential difference between them is material.
Bone China ceramic tableware is made by combining raw materials with at least 30% bone ash (mainly tricalcium phosphate) and fired twice successively. Bone ash adds a warmth to Bone China’s texture and a translucency in color, making the products lightweight. Due to its intricate process and high standards, Bone China is regarded as a superior choice for ceramic tableware products.
Porcelain dinnerware, on the other hand, primarily utilizes kaolin, quartz, and feldspar as raw materials, fired once at temperatures higher than 1280℃. The dense, durable structure of porcelain makes it perfect for everyday use in restaurants, hotels, and other commercial areas.
Bone China VS Porcelain: Differences in Manufacturing Process
Bone China
- Bone ash is combined with porcelain clay and feldspar.
- Fired twice at about 1200°C.
- Produces delicate translucency and a lighter, more refined feel.
Porcelain
- Fired once at temperatures above 1280°C.
- Obtains a compact, solid structure with excellent durability and resistance to impact.
- More suitable for high-traffic commercial environments.
Tip: Understanding the manufacturing process helps companies choose ceramic tableware that balances aesthetics, durability, and cost.
Bone China VS Porcelain: Product Performance Comparison
Transparency and Appearance
- Bone China: Ivory in color, highly translucent, elegant, suitable for high-end hotels, fine dining, or corporate gifting.
- Porcelain: Opaque or semi-transparent in various white shades. Custom colors are available. Natural, rustic appearance suitable for heavy-duty commercial service.
Hardness and Durability
- Bone China: Thin yet strong and wear-resistant, suitable for upscale environments.
- Porcelain: Denser, impact-resistant, ideal for restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses.
Resistance of Touch & Heat
- Bone China: Smooth glaze, lightweight, excellent heat retention, easy to clean.
- Porcelain: Slightly heavier and coarser, withstands frequent use and high-pressure environments.
Price Difference: Why Bone China Costs More
The production of Bone China requires special raw materials (bone ash) and a refined two-step firing process, increasing its production cost. Porcelain, made from more common materials and using a single-firing process, is cheaper to produce and more commercially viable.
Tip: When choosing between Bone China and Porcelain, consider your target market positioning, restaurant style, and budget.
Lianyuan: Your Reliable Ceramic Dinnerware Supplier
Lianyuan, a leading ceramic tableware manufacturer in China, supplies high-quality Bone China and Porcelain tableware to restaurants, hotels, and commercial clients worldwide. We provide ceramic dinnerware OEM and ODM customization with design, color, and style options tailored to your brand and market requirements.
Why Choose Lianyuan Ceramics?
- Strict selection of raw materials to ensure safe and long-lasting ceramic tableware.
- Advanced ceramic production techniques for consistent quality.
- Customization for B2B clients aligned with branding and menu presentation.
- Proven export experience in global hospitality and catering markets.
Partner with Lianyuan for your business, whether you seek Bone China elegance or Porcelain practicality, to get the most suitable ceramic tableware solutions.

Conclusion
There is no absolute “better”; only what is more suitable. A decision between Bone China and Porcelain depends on your business needs, customer expectations, and budget. Bone China suits elegance and luxury, while Porcelain provides durability and practicality for high-volume commercial use.
With Lianyuan as your trusted ceramics supplier, you can confidently choose the right tableware to suit your restaurant, hotel, or catering business in terms of quality, safety, and aesthetic appearance. For custom ceramic tableware, contact us today to get custom recommendations for your business!




