Starburst by Franciscan China
Stardust by Fostoria
Twin Star Stainless by Oneida

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Mid-Century modern tableware designs, which are classic representations of the applied art of mid-20th century America, feature clean, informal lines and natural shapes. The three patterns featured here were very popular mid-century modern designs, and were the essence of modernity during the period from 1954–1966. These patterns are still highly sought after, even in the 21st century!

Franciscan Starburst was introduced in 1954 and its pieces featured an out-of-the-ordinary shape known as the "Eclipse Shape", designed by the renowned George T. James. The Eclipse shape can be best described as slightly oval or even ovoid. Starburst would prove a radical departure from prior tableware design, using geometric turquoise, yellow, and green star designs for a modern earthenware design that was perfect for the start of the space age! In additional to a range of neat place setting pieces, the pattern features a large assortment of serving pieces including handled jelly plates, egg cups and canister sets, along with unusual items such as salt and pepper mill sets. Today Starburst is collectible and considered representative of the best in mid-century modern design.

Fostoria Stardust was introduced in 1957, and is known as Rock Crystal Cutting #851. It is a polished crystal cutting featuring a couple of different starburst motifs to create a very unique and dramatic design. This pattern has six different stemmed piece types including the goblet, wine, sherbet, iced tea, juice, and cordial, enough to meet the needs of the most trend-conscious hostess. Also in the pattern are crystal serving pieces including the creamer, sugar, and various relish trays.

Oneida Twin Star was an instant hit with mid-20th century customers with its rhythmic asymmetrical star and dot design. Twin Star was marketed by Betty Crocker and promoted via very popular coupons from flour, cake and pie crust mixes. Industrious homemakers used a combination of these coupons and dollars to set an entire table in Twin Star. The pattern evokes memories of fun times to this day. Twin Star came in a wide range of piece types; you could start your set with very basic place settings and serving and accessory pieces could be added as you baked more cakes, including pieces like gravy ladles, carving sets, and casserole spoons. This pattern also came with cocktail forks and iced tea spoons, which were used at many a mid-century dinner party. Twin Star became one of most popular of the Oneida/Betty Crocker patterns of the mid-century modern era, and is still very popular today.

To browse and order in a great selection of china, crystal, and stainless pieces with a decided Mid-Century Modern influence, start at these links!