Belleek China

Belleek Pottery Ltd has been making fine Parian ware since 1863 in Belleek, County Fermanagh, Ireland. Belleek pieces are marked with an Irish Wolfhound, a round castle, a harp, two sprigs of shamrock, and usually a banner. Below are the antique and vintage marks used at various times during the company's history. After 2000, numerous new variations of marks were introduced, with the most recent examples including the company's website.

• First Mark (1st Black Mark): 1863 - 1891
• Second Mark (2nd Black Mark): 1891 - 1926
• Third Mark (3rd Black Mark): 1926 - 1946
• Fourth Mark (1st Green Mark): 1946 - 1955
• Fifth Mark (2nd Green Mark): 1955 - 1965
• Sixth Mark (3rd Green Mark): 1965 - 1980
• Seventh Mark (First Gold Mark): 1980 - 1993
• Eighth Mark (Violet): 1993 - 1997
• Ninth Mark (Blue): 1997 - 2000

While some Belleek Pottery dinnerware patterns have been in production for more than 150 years, some of these patterns have changed very slightly over time. Older pieces tend to have a more a creamier porcelain base, whereas modern pieces are somewhat whiter. Many early patterns used a yellow luster glaze inside, and the yellow luster glaze, if used, is less prominent in modern pieces. Finally, the sizes of cups, saucers, and various plates tended to increase slightly over time.