There is nothing that is considered more English than a cup of tea. One time remaining pleasure of English tradition is having tea in the afternoon served in a fine china antique tea set along with a scone. As a way to deal with the heat and humidity, tea became popular to the British around the tie of the Raj to keep from becoming dehydrated. Tea became a universal drink enjoyed by all and is still loved by the English this very day.

Afternoon tea parties became high profile social events in the upper society of Britain during which was a time for rejuvenation and rest after a morning bird hunting adventure. After the tea has been consumed, it was then time for a lovely afternoon of billiards.

In the 1700′s, a lost of the tea supply came from East India. The china was coming from the East on ships mostly just for being used as ballast. As shipping methods were refined, soon china tea sets were being shipped in. Bone china pieces began being produced after the discovery of china clay in Cornwall.. As a result, china tea sets, dining sets and other items were being made.

With the love of tea, elegant tea sets and pots began to be largely produced. Many were decorated by hand with fine art pieces. Collectors are reminded of the importance of this time in the history of Britain by these ornately decorated pieces.

An antique tea set is in high demand for collectors. At auction, a truly antique set in mint condition will bring a considerable quantity of money. All over the world, a large number of collectors are always in search of the best and most ornately decorated sets.

Many collectors specialize more in single tea pots, which can be meticulously decorated and made from china, porcelain, silver or stoneware, however a complete antique tea set will have greater value than just a single piece.

Royal Doulton is a commonly known English manufacturer of tea sets and pots. The date back to 1815 and are widely known. They are actually known all over England to many men because they also use their materials to create urinals and toilets for pubs.

Well-known as well is Wedgewood china. This company which was created by Josiah Wedgewood in the mid 1700′s was loved by the queen and it was soon branded as the chinaware of the queen. It wasn’t until later, in the 1800′s, that the new favorite material became porcelain.

The typical designs on Wedgewood items were scenes of Roman, Greek, or Egyptian mythology. These pieces were largely enjoyed and were in such high demand that getting the materials from China was no longer efficient. They were then required to use local materials in order to produce enough to reach the demand.

Tea sets made of silver are also a high value item. They were actually seen as a mark of social standing. Now, they go for large amounts of money at auctions and markets.

Learn more about antique stoneware. Stop by Jordana Bourdeaux’s site where you can find out all about antique tea set and what it can do for you.