(pronunciation: ba (as in baa-baa black sheep), leek as in spring onions, ba-leek)

Most Belleek porcelain can be recognized on sight, by the shamrocks or by the basket form. The baskets are formed of interwoven or mesh of porcelain strings of absolutely uniform diameter. Small colored flowers are placed on the lacy edge. These baskets are copied by other manufacturers, so check the bottom for a makers mark.

The other signal product is a cream body, usually with a woven or uneven surface. The only color decoration is a few three-leaf clovers on stems. These may be formed in a clump on one side and then painted, or painted on the object in an even distribution. This format is expressed in many forms of vases, small boxes, bells, candy dishes and Christmas ornaments. These items are also imitated by other manufacturers.

Belleek produces regular table-top dining china in a few patterns, and flatware and crystal glassware to go with the dinnerware. They produce a few figurines and the occasional monumental item. A small line of jewelry is also included in their products.

Belleek can be purchased from company stores in Ireland, but is available in North America through other outlets, including gift shops, jewelry stores and in your finer department stores. Of course, once you are familiar with the general feel of the items, there is no problem buying them on-line as the quality is assured.

To see Belleek Porcelain, go to my Squidoo lens about it.

My opinion: A little pricey, but beautifully produced. As a fan of shamrocks, I like their work, and I have even come around to the baskets with flowers. Here again, one or two will do you.

* * * Use plate racks to display some of your plate collection. * * *

Prices: Christmas ornaments can be purchased for less than $50, and most of the Belleek items can be purchased under $100. Perhaps a gift for a special niece.

Collector’s Society: Belleek Collectors International Society.

Established in 1979, the society provides special purchases and tours of the pottery. Belleek also has a convention every two years where collectors can meet, and members can use the society to find buyers and sellers for Belleek items.

The official company site is: http://www.belleek.ie/

History
Belleek was established in response to the Irish potato famine by the local land owner. He sought to provide another means of living for the local population, and after a geological survey discovered all the mineral requirements locally, a pottery was established. The original pottery was located on an island to take advantage of water power. Eventually, railroad access provided a way to bring in coal for new kilns and a means of transport for the factory production. With the eventual changeover to electricity to run the pottery, the local citizens acquired electric lights, an amenity that came to other localities at a much later time.

Surviving both World Wars required changes in production, but the company managed. Eventually Belleek was incorporated, and is now the owner of several other china companies, namely, Aynsley China in Stoke-on-Trent and Donegal Parian China in Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal.  Belleek also owns Galway Crystal in Galway City, Ireland.

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