The Production of Stoneware
Antique stoneware crocks are made of clay and fired in a kiln to the strength of stone. The salt glaze was formed by throwing salt into the kiln, which bonded with the silica in the clay forming the glass glaze. In different areas of the country, different glazing methods were used to produce different colors from yellows to deep brow. Unique cobalt blue decorations were also created with cobalt oxide.
A Brown Crock I Recently Purchased
A Cobalt Decorated Crock I Inherited from my Mother
The Value of a Stoneware Crock
The manufacturer, condition of the piece, the cobalt decoration and still having a lid are the key factors affecting the value of your crock. It is very difficult to find crocks that still have their original lids.
The popularity of stoneware crocks has led to numerous reproduction crocks being sold today, so ask the antique dealer if it is original or a reproduction before you buy one.
I am sure you will enjoy having an antique crock or two in your home as much as I do!
Sincerely,
Lynn
I have a small antique crock that I keep by my stove to hold utensils I use on a daily basis. Beats rummaging through a drawer to find what I need! The crock belonged to my grandmother, who used it many, many years ago, so it also has sentimental value for me.
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