The Chinese were the original creators of china, but Limoges, France became famous for it in the 1700s. It was during this time that kaolin was discovered in its soil, enabling craftsmen to generate the perfect mix of elements to create superior porcelain. At first, Limoges porcelain was made exclusively for the royal court but, as time progressed, it became available internationally to anyone who could afford it. Collectors today still consider Limoges porcelain to be among the finest available, and it is therefore widely imitated. There are a few basic guidelines you can follow to help confirm the authenticity of a porcelain that is represented to you as a Limoges.

  • The Chinese were the original creators of china, but Limoges, France became famous for it in the 1700s.
  • At first, Limoges porcelain was made exclusively for the royal court but, as time progressed, it became available internationally to anyone who could afford it.

Look closely at the pattern on the porcelain with a magnifying glass. While at first it may appear to be a quality design, upon closer inspection, fakes display sloppily applied decorations. According to the Modern Reproductions, Fakes and Fantasies shop on RubyLane.com, when it comes to real Limoges: "Any hand applied factory decoration would be expertly painted and uniform."

Pick up the piece of porcelain and hold it in your hand--it should not feel heavy for its size. An authentic Limoges feels light because it is "thinly potted and translucent," explains the Modern Reproductions, Fakes and Fantasies shop on RubyLane.com.

Turn the piece of porcelain over to see the back and examine the "Limoges" mark with a magnifying glass. Fakes often misspell "Limoges" writing it as "Aimoges" or "Limogee" in a particular font and manner that you ordinarily wouldn't notice unless scrutinising the piece.

  • Pick up the piece of porcelain and hold it in your hand--it should not feel heavy for its size.
  • Fakes often misspell "Limoges" writing it as "Aimoges" or "Limogee" in a particular font and manner that you ordinarily wouldn't notice unless scrutinising the piece.

Examine any gold trim your piece may have. If it is bright and shiny, it is most likely fake. A real Limoges piece will have a noticeable patina.

Examine the porcelain piece's composition. It should look symmetrical. If it is a tea set, all the handles should match perfectly. Everything about the piece should be well-balanced and proportioned.