How to choose a tableware set: porcelain, ceramic and dinner sets

A tableware set is usually bought once and kept for years: as part of a bride’s dowry, for a new home or for hosting guests. Every set looks good in a photo; the real difference is in the material, what the set contains and the decoration. The Dona catalogue has 22 tableware items, priced from 49,000 to 2.4 million UZS. Below is what to check, with real prices.

Porcelain or ceramic: what is the difference#

Porcelain is white clay fired at a high temperature. It is thin, not heavy, and lets a little light through when you hold it up. Flick the rim with a finger and it rings. Porcelain does not absorb stains or smells, so it stays white for years.

Ceramic (stoneware or earthenware) is thicker and heavier and does not let light through. As long as the glaze does not crack or chip, it works well for everyday meals. It is usually cheaper than porcelain.

One tip: compare the listing title with the specifications. One set in the catalogue is called “ceramic” in the title, while its specifications list the material as porcelain. In that case, ask the seller, or ask them on a live stream to hold a plate up to the light.

How many people, and what is in the box#

“For 6 people” or “for 12 people” does not tell the whole story. Read the contents: how many bowls, tea bowls (piyola), large and small plates and teapots are included. For an Uzbek dastarkhan, a large plov platter (lagan) and salad bowls matter too. For example, the 60-piece and 64-piece sets for 12 people in the catalogue differ exactly in the number of large plov platters.

A set for 6 is enough for everyday family meals. For weddings, holidays and big gatherings, choose a dinner set for 12. A separate tea set with a teapot and tea bowls is handy too, and it makes a good gift.

Gold trim and care#

Do not put dishes with a gold or silver rim in the microwave: metallic decoration can spark and ruin the plate. In a dishwasher this kind of decoration fades faster, so it is better to wash it by hand with a soft sponge. Plain white porcelain or ceramic is easier for everyday use.

All sets are in the tableware section. If you are buying a gift, read our guide to choosing a gift without leaving home. If you are updating your kitchen, see also how to choose a tap.

Real prices (Dona, October 2026)#

Prices are taken from the app catalogue as of 13 October 2026. A seller can change a price at any time; the current price and availability are shown on the product page in the app.

• Tea set with a teapot for 6 people — porcelain with a gold pattern, a teapot with a lid and 6 tea bowls, in a gift box — 99,000 UZS. The cheapest on this list.
• Kitchenware set 24 pieces — cutlery, stainless steel: 6 spoons, 6 forks, 6 teaspoons, 6 knives and a stand — 159,000 UZS.
• Ceramic kitchenware for 6, 32 pieces — white, plates, bowls and mugs — 555,000 UZS.
• 62-piece dinnerware set for 12 people — porcelain with a gold pattern, 12 each of bowls and tea bowls, 24 plates (12 medium, 12 small), 2 teapots, 2 large plov platters — 849,000 UZS.
• Porcelain dish set, 64 pieces — for 12 people, gold trim, with 4 large plov platters — 1,205,000 UZS.

What to ask on a live stream#

On a live stream, ask the seller to hold one plate up to the light: porcelain lets a little through. Ask them to flick the rim so you can hear it. Have them open the box on camera and count how many of each item the set contains. Type “What happens if something breaks in delivery?” in the chat to find out about packaging and returns in advance.