A Guide to Collecting Wedgwood Jasperware—and How to Know If Yours Is Authentic

If you're a collector of pottery, you know that no collection is complete without Jasperware—the quintessence of Josiah Wedgwood's career as an English potter. This unglazed stoneware, decorated with cameo-like motifs, can be found in 18th, 19th, and 20th-century versions of the original blues, lilacs, greens, and whites. These urns and vases—in their smooth, matte finish—are still being produced today and make a stately impression in any room. Whether you're looking to add to your collection or you're a first-time purchaser, we're sharing everything you need to know about acquiring, caring for, and authenticating Jasperware.

Who Was Josiah Wedgwood?

Josiah Wedgwood was a famous English potter who is commonly referred to as the "Father of English Pottery." He founded the Wedgwood company in 1759 while working as an independent potter in Burslem, England. Throughout his career, Wedgwood invented many materials that are still produced today, including Jasper, Queen's Ware, and Black Basalt.

Since its inception, Wedgwood's pottery has been present in some of the world's most beautiful homes, including the holiday palace of Empress Catherine the Great, the banquet tables at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953, and a 1,282-piece dinner at The White House during President Roosevelt’s presidency, according to Wedgwood's website.

What Is Wedgwood Jasperware?

Jasperware, which is widely recognized as Josiah Wedgwood’s most important creation, first debuted in 1774 after thousands of experiments. The unglazed, dense stoneware is typically recognized by its matte finish and classical motifs, says Nicolas Martin, flea market expert and founder of Flea Market Insiders.

It was made in blue, green, lilac, yellow, black, or white and sometimes featured a combination of three or more of these colors. Jasper's most famous color was light blue, which gave rise to the term "Wedgwood Blue," which is a signature of the brand to this day. "Barring wartime interruptions, it has been made continuously by the firm for more than 200 years," says Jennaea Denhardt, a former china buyer for department stores like Dayton's, Hudson's, and Marshall Field's.

How to Care for Wedgwood Jasperware

To preserve Jasperware's beauty and integrity, you must know how to clean it properly. "Caring for Jasperware is not just about maintenance; it's about respecting the artistry and history that each piece embodies," Martin says.

Follow these tips to keep your pieces in excellent condition:

• Avoid harsh chemicals: These can damage the matte finish and delicate bas-relief details.
• Spot clean gently: Use warm soapy water and a soft brush to target problem areas without scratching the surface.
• Protect from extreme temperatures: Sudden temperature changes can damage the stoneware.
• Keep out of direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure can cause fading and discoloration.

Where to Purchase Wedgwood Jasperware

Where you purchase Jasperware depends on whether you're looking for Wedgwood reissues or original pieces. "If the former, then the easiest way is through official Wedgwood retail stores or their website," says Martin. "But it's also worth checking out authorized department stores, luxury goods retailers, and even reputable online marketplaces."

If you are looking for original pieces produced in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries, you may have luck finding vintage Wedgwood at antique shops, auctions, online marketplaces, estate sales, pottery fairs, specialized online forums, collectors clubs, and antique shows.

How to Authenticate Wedgwood Jasperware

Authenticating Jasperware starts with examining the mark on the bottom of the piece, which can offer key clues about its age and origin. According to Martin, these are some of the most common variations:

• Wedgwood: Seen in a distinctive typeface, it's the most classic and widely used mark.
• WEDGWOOD, W&B, or Wedgwood & Bentley: These marks are often found on pieces from the 18th and early 19th centuries.
• England or Made in England: Pieces marked with the word England are often post-1860. Later 20th-century pieces may include Made in England.

In addition to checking for markings, you can confirm authenticity by how the piece looks and feels. Martin suggests considering these factors:

• Finish: Smooth and refined, never grainy.
• Bas-relief designs: Well-defined with no blurred edges.
• Color: Especially in Wedgwood blue, the tone should be consistent throughout, with no discoloration or uneven shades.
• Weight and texture: Real Jasperware has a solid, weighty feel and a tactile quality that's hard to replicate.