CHINA

China marbles are marbles that are made with a very dense white clay and then fired at a very high temperature. This produces a much heavier marble, for the size, than a clay or crockery marble.

 

Most chinas are painted. Some of the decorations can be quite intricate. Many of the chinas that you will find are glazed as well. Jeff Carskadden has written an excellent book on china marbles and you should refer to it for a more detailed description of the different types.

 

In order of rarity, painted chinas have the following patterns: Lines on one axis, helix on pole or poles, intersecting lines, crows feet, bullseyes, simple flowers, donut hole flowers, roses, intricate roses, scenic designs. Some hand painted chinas have been found with gold-colored bullseyes. These are rare.

 

Click any marble for a full screen image.