Martha Stewart Reveals Why She Has An Infinite Love For Jadeite

Choosing dishware is a crucial decision you have to make when moving into a new place, and most people stick to standard porcelain for their plates and bowls. These dishes are made in various colors, but many homeowners choose simple white and beige hues. However, if you've been looking to replace the mundane white dishware you've had since your first home, then you might want to check out Martha Stewart's favorite colorful dishware option: jadeite. These are vintage green glassware collectibles initially used for food storage purposes that are resistant to staining and heat damage. Many of Stewart's pieces are from her daughter, Alexis, who gathered them over 20 years ago on her road trips. Stewart claims she loves jadeite because it's multi-purpose. She states on her website, "They work. They're a collectible that's useable."

Jadeite dinnerware was displayed everywhere on Stewart's show, catching everyone's attention. She soon started the trend of decorating with green dishware in her kitchen, and she created a jadeite line for others to indulge in as well. The gorgeous green shade is a perfect way to add a pop of color to any kitchen. Sometimes, you don't want to go overboard with bold, trendy colors in your cooking space, but jadeite is an exception. It's a collectible that's classy and rare to find, and it belongs in every kitchen. 

Jadeite was extremely popular in the 1940s when used primarily in hospitals, restaurants, and hotels. The dinnerware was thick and heavy for restaurants, making it more durable. Their durability prevented them from chipping and allowed them to last for years. Old jadeite you see at antique shops is still pristine because it survived every tumble. Martha Stewart claims, "It was well made, so it didn't break. That's why there's still so much of it around," per her website. The porcelain dishware we have now is more susceptible to chipping because it can't handle the shock from harsh contact. Low-quality dishware that's chipped isn't worth keeping and should always be thrown out or repurposed. Therefore, investing in jadeite dishes that won't easily break could save you money, as you won't have to replace your pieces as often.

Additionally, jadeite is highly versatile and can make a home in any kitchen. It can be included in coastal, farmhouse, country, and eclectic styles without looking out of place or awkward. Since jadeite is produced in various forms including mugs, plates, bowls, salt and pepper shakers, butter dishes, and pitchers, you can purchase an entire collection. On the other hand, you don't have to purchase every single item in this material if the color is too overwhelming, as a small set of mugs would still add interest. You can decide how much jadeite you want to incorporate in your kitchen.

Now that different types of dishware are being made, jadeite is rare and typically only found at secondhand stores. However, some companies have started manufacturing jadeite dinnerware since it has become popular again. The only problem is that the cost is much higher than when it was first made. They range in price between $30 to over $100. If you're excited to start your own collection, Etsy is possibly one of the best places to look for the most affordable prices. You'll find jadeite dishware that's both new and used and sold in both bundles and individual pieces. For example, Etsy seller MothersVintage sells a pitcher with the buyer's choice of four, six, or eight tumblers ranging from $105 to $162, which is an excellent deal. Some companies sell the pitcher and glasses separately, making the set more expensive.

If you don't have any luck finding jadeite dishes at your local secondhand store or antique shop, Martha Stewart created a line of jadeite dinnerware that includes a few affordable pieces. For instance, she sells a pitcher for $50 and an 8-inch bowl that regularly costs $30. You can also find Stewart's sets at retailers such as JCPenney, where two 6-inch bowls are regularly sold for $60. While these prices may seem a bit steep, purchasing something you know will last for years is worth the investment.