Pottery Treasures to Look For at Thrift Stores (They Can Be Very Valuable)

When we wander through the thrift store or check out estate sales, we’re not just looking for new decor. We’re adopting a piece of history and continuing its story. This is what makes vintage shopping so special. You get access to unique styles no longer in production. The history and beauty of a vintage piece adds depth to your home that you can’t get with new, mass-produced items. From furniture to wall art, there’s no shortage of vintage pieces to consider bringing home. And vintage pottery is especially compelling to hunt down, like Heath Ceramics.

The Heath Ceramics brand was founded back in 1948 in California. They shook up the pottery world by experimenting with new clay mixes while keeping a practical, modern look. The artist behind the brand, Edith Heath, wanted to create distinctly American ceramics for everyday use, not the fancy European styles. As Heath Ceramics grew, they became a staple of the mid-century modernism movement. Today, the company still produces ceramics in a small factory. But if you spot vintage Heath Ceramics at the thrift store, don’t pass them up – they can resell for hundreds of dollars.

If you’re hoping to find Heath Ceramics at the thrift store, keep an eye out for the brand’s signature neutral color palette and mid-century modern design. If you think you’ve found an Edith Heath original, check the bottom for a backstamp logo. An authentic piece will have “HEATH” in all caps, with the line of the “T” forming an inverted triangle on a horizontal line, like a mug on a potter’s wheel. Some studio pieces just have the “HEATH” logo, so don’t write it off if that’s all you see. If you’re still unsure, ask a pottery expert for their opinion.

Can’t find vintage Heath Ceramics at the thrift store? No worries, you can buy pre-loved pieces directly from the company’s website. This guarantees authenticity, but at a higher price. eBay also has a great selection to explore. But for the best deal, keep your eyes peeled at your local thrift shop, flea market, or estate sale.

Once you bring home your Heath Ceramics finds, don’t be afraid to use them. Edith Heath designed them for everyday use, not to sit in a cabinet. If you get dinnerware, feel free to use it regularly, not just for special occasions. Just be gentle – use mild soap and avoid the dishwasher to keep them in great shape.

Heath Ceramics also made tons of cool home accessories. Display vases on shelves, use bowls as centerpieces, or style a tray with candle holders. Get creative and let your vintage ceramics play off modern elements for a personal, storied look.