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The other Longaberger collectible
We all know someone who is positively basket crazy! But, do you know someone who is crazy for Longaberger Pottery? Since its introduction in 1990, Longaberger Pottery has had a following of dedicated collectors.
The addition of pottery to the Longaberger product line was a natural progression for The Longaberger Company. Just like baskets, pottery has a rich history and was an important commodity in Ohio. In fact, J.W. Longaberger’s Ware Baskets were crafted for local pottery companies.
As you begin building your collection of pottery, or as you add to your current collection, there are a couple of details to keep in mind to ensure you are getting an authentic Longaberger product.
First, Longaberger Pottery is easy to spot because of the distinct design which is hand-painted on each piece. All pottery, except for Heirloom Ivory, has the colorful detail known as the four petal motif in either Traditional Red, Classic Blue, or Heritage Green.
Second, all Longaberger Pottery is embossed with the woven “L” logo. Pottery that does not include these two attributes is not an authentic Longaberger product. We have heard of collectors purchasing what they thought was authentic pottery when, in fact, it was not. This includes items that are seconds. Contrary to belief pottery that does not meet Longaberger’s stringent quality standards, or seconds, is NOT more collectible, or worth more than first-quality pieces.
You may notice slight differences in your pottery pieces especially if you have ones that were produced prior to 1992. From 1990 to late 1991 Longaberger Pottery was produced by Friendship Pottery in Roseville, Ohio. Available only in Classic Blue, each piece was dated and initialed. The embossment on pieces made in Roseville is blue and the body of the pottery is a creamy white color. After problems ensued, Longaberger moved production to Sterling Pottery in East Liverpool, Ohio. These pieces are embossed with a black woven L and the body is a brighter white. It is important to note that these pieces are not dated and initialed.
Even though the pottery has been made in two different locations, there is absolutely no difference in its quality and attributes. Each piece can go from freezer to oven to table with ease.
When Longaberger Pottery was introduced it was promoted as bringing two great American classics back together again. We could not agree more! Longaberger Baskets and Longaberger Pottery are wonderful additions to any household and great collectibles!
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