Bone china gets its name for a reason. Traditional bone china is made by combining bone ash (usually from cattle), feldspar, and kaolin (a type of clay). The result is a lightweight, almost translucent ceramic that's surprisingly strong despite its delicate appearance.
The process dates back to 18th-century England, when Josiah Spode perfected the formula using bone ash to create a fine, durable porcelain alternative. It became so popular that it's now considered one of the finest types of crockery available.
But don't worry--modern bone china production is carefully regulated, and the materials used are clean and safe. Some manufacturers even use synthetic bone ash to cater to ethical and dietary preferences.
If you're holding a cup that feels lighter and more delicate than the rest--but it's still touch enough to survive tea time--you're probably using bone china.
Fun Fact: Hold a bone china cup up to the light, and you might see your fingers through it. That's part of its charm.