Not all fine china comes with a royal endorsement, but Paragon china built its brand around just that. Known for its intricate floral patterns, commemorative designs, and high-quality craftsmanship, Paragon china remains one of the most collectible brands of bone china.
In this week's blog, we look closer at Paragon china, its history, and our picks for the top 10 Paragon china patterns.
History of Paragon China
Paragon china began in 1897 in Staffordshire, England, initially operating as the Star China Company. By the early 1900s, the firm transitioned to the name Paragon, under the leadership of Herbert Aynsley (yes, from the same Aynsley china family) and Hugh Irving.
From the outset, Paragon china made a name for itself, producing high-quality tea and breakfast sets. The company's focus on craftsmanship and design caught the attention of British royalty, setting it apart from the crowded English porcelain market. Paragon would earn multiple Royal Warrants, a rare distinction granted by Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, and Queen Elizabeth II.
In 1960, Paragon joined the Royal Doulton Group, but its patterns and legacy remained distinct from those of the parent company. Today, collectors seek both early and mid-century designs for their artistry and history.
Royal Connections and Commemorative Pieces
Paragon's royal ties weren't just symbolic. The company was commissioned to create sets for major royal milestones, including:
-
The birth of Queen Elizabeth II (1926), marked by a special design.
-
A Coronation set in 1953, celebrating Elizabeth II's rise to the throne.
-
Commemorative collections for royal tours and marriages.
-
These pieces, often gilded with 22-karat gold and hand-decorated, carry particular value among collectors, especially if they are part of a complete set.
Top 10 Most Collectible Paragon China Patterns
With hundreds of patterns produced over the years, these are among the most collectible and beloved:
Tree of Kashmir (1930s)
A bold and colourful Indian-inspired motif, known for its exotic floral medallions.
Victoriana Rose (1950s)
A soft pink floral pattern with gold trim that embodies the romantic post-war aesthetic.
Minuet (1940s)
Features swirling pink and blue flowers with heavy gold accents, popular in tea services.
Belinda (1960s)
A delicate floral wreath with soft pastels—classic 1960s English bone china.
Rockingham (1930s–40s)
Known for its pale green borders and ornate centrepieces, often used for cabinet display.
Forget-Me-Not (1940s)
A sweet pattern with scattered blue flowers, often gifted as a keepsake.
Tapestry Rose (1950s)
Elegant and rich with deep red roses, a nod to traditional English garden style.
Paradise Birds (early 20th century)
Exotic birds perched among florals. A more whimsical, less common design that has become a sleeper hit with collectors.
Celebration (1953 Coronation Edition)
A commemorative pattern featuring a laurel and crown motif, issued in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.
Clio (1940s)
A blend of neoclassical design and subtle floral elements, prized for its symmetry and unusual colour palette.
How to Identify Paragon China Backstamps
Backstamps on Paragon china pieces can help you identify the period in which your china was made:
-
Pre-1930s: "Paragon China, England" with a simple star or script.
-
1930s–1950s: More elaborate stamps, including royal crests and the words "By Appointment."
-
Post-1960s: Often marked with "Royal Doulton" along with Paragon branding.
Look for handwritten pattern numbers or gilding marks, as well. These can indicate hand-finishing and smaller production runs.
Caring for Your Paragon China
To preserve the beauty and value of your Paragon china:
-
Always hand wash using warm water and mild soap.
-
Avoid dishwashers and microwaves, especially with gold-gilded patterns.
-
Store pieces upright (not stacked) when possible to prevent wear.
-
Display in low-light areas to prevent fading of delicate transfers and paint.
Fine Tableware at Around the Block
Paragon is just one of the prestigious fine china brands you'll find in our carefully curated inventory at Around the Block in Toronto. Whether you're a longtime collector or new to vintage porcelain, we regularly feature top-quality fine china pieces from Aynsley, Villeroy & Boch, Spode, Royal Albert, Rosenthal, Wedgwood, and, of course, Paragon.
Each visit to our store is a chance to discover something rare, storied, and beautiful—perfect for collectors, decorators, and those who love the charm of English china.
