Spode Blue Italian Blue/White Seconds Earthenware Side Plate, 19cm

Seconds: 'Seconds' items are hand-selected from production as a result of high-quality standards. They may have small defects or minor surface imperfections but this will not detract from the safety, strength, durability or beauty of the tableware.

A side plate from the Blue Italian collection by Spode. Made of earthenware in the UK, they're dishwasher, microwave and freezer safe, as well as oven safe up to 170°C for everyday use. Spode's Blue Italian collection is inspired by Italian countryside scenes and since 1816 has been at the centre of special family occasions, elegant dinner parties and as essential accent pieces in the home. Renowned for its strength and durability, the collection suits modern-day dining.

All our china is made from clay and kiln-fired for durability. Except for pieces with special trims, everything is dishwasher-safe. Below are a few options to consider when choosing your perfect china.

• Earthenware Strong and practical, earthenware is often a little thicker than other ceramics, making it ideal for everyday use.
• Stoneware Fired at high temperatures, stoneware is very tough and heat-resistant. It comes in a number of different glaze finishes.
• Porcelain Affordable yet luxurious, porcelain is renowned for its translucency. Fired at high temperatures, porcelain has an extremely tough glazed surface, making it durable.
• Fine china The synthetic bone ash used in fine china makes it a more affordable alternative to bone china. Like bone china, it's strong, translucent and delicate, and creamier in colour.
• New bone china A type of porcelain with added calcium oxide to achieve a similar aesthetic as bone china, but without animal bone ash.
• Bone china White bone china is the strongest and most translucent ceramic. Though it looks delicate, it's tough enough for daily use and is usually dishwasher-safe. It contains at least 35% bone ash.