Wedgwood China

Founded in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood, Wedgwood creates fine china, porcelain, and other luxury accessories. Often referred to as the "Father of English Potters," Wedgwood began as an independent potter in England at the age of 29, experimenting with clay.

In 1766, Wedgwood created a new form of earthenware, a low-fired pottery, that impressed the British Queen consort so much, she officially named it "Queen's Ware." This catapulted Wedgwood to a highly respected status.

Since then, Wedgwood has had continued success and popularity, with many of Josiah Wedgwood's descendants being involved in the management of the company. In 1986, Waterford Glass Group purchased Wedgwood, renaming it Waterford Wedgwood.

Quick Facts

• There is a Wedgwood Museum in England devoted to telling the story of Josiah Wedgwood and displaying some of the most interesting ceramic collections in the world
• Josiah Wedgwood invented and produced three of Wedgwood's most famous ceramic bodies: Queen's Ware, Black Basalt, and Jasper
• A pair of large Wedgwood green jasperware vases with covers sold at Christie's Cowdray Park Sale in September 2011 for $87,074