Upon hearing the phrase “Fire King,” many picture the highly-collectible, milky green Jade-ite pattern re-popularized by Martha Stewart. But Fire King dishware, manufactured by Anchor Hocking from the early 1940s to the late 1970s, transcends the minty confines of the popular Jade-ite collectibles.
While Fire King created dishes in both solids and patterns, many collectors enjoy the crispness of the translucent to opaque solids, as their pastel hues add an instant retro look to the kitchen and dining room and nicely compliment other vintage dishes.
Fire King Dishware Colors
The softness of many Fire King hues give pieces an old-fashioned charm that is highly valued by collectors. Fire King dishware in milky shades includes the following popular colors (click on links for visuals):
- Jade-ite
- Turquoise Blue
- Azurite (light blue)
- Rose-ite (pink)
- Anchorwhite (milk glass)
- Ivory
- Milk glass with gold or silver trim (see image at top and bottom of article)
Fire King dishware is also found in transparent shades such as Ruby Red and Forest Green, as well as the iridescent shade Peach Luster.
Fire King Dishware Patterns
There are MANY different Fire King patterns that showcase the colorful shades mentioned above. A few of the most popular include:
- Restaurant Ware, a clean-lined, diner-style pattern
- Swirl, which boasts a rippled look that evokes an ice cream shop nostalgia
- Charm, with squared-off edges that create a contemporary look
- Bubble, with raised circles covering the dishware
- Sheaves of Wheat, featuring a raised wheat pattern
Collecting Fire King Dishware
The candy colors of milky Fire King dishware add softness and vintage charm to a kitchen or dining space. Collecting is rewarding, as many items are affordable, and hunting for colors and patterns of choice can be fun in itself. When considering Fire King collectibles to purchase and display:
- Mix and match colors for a layered effect, OR
- Pick one color and add interest with different patterns (Charm, Swirl, etc.) in that same hue
- Select clean-lined patterns such as Restaurant Ware and Charm for a contemporary look
- Group items together to add power to the collection--there is strength in numbers
Don't be afraid to enjoy your Fire King dishware to the fullest. While many recommend leaving Fire King items out of the microwave and dishwasher, they are great for serving and were made to be used! Dessert parties are ideal for showcasing these icing-hued cups, saucers and serving pieces. Happy hunting!
Sources:
"Fire King Charm Azur-ite." Our Day Our Journey. 8 Oct. 2008. 27 Oct. 2010.
Prochaska, Suzanne. "Fire King Glassware." SusieMax.com. 27 Oct. 2010.
Prochaska, Suzanne. "Fire King Turquoise." SusieMax.com. 27 Oct. 2010.
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