What is the typical firing temperature range associated with stoneware?

• A. Below 1200 C
• B. 1200-1800 C
• C. Above 1800 C
• D. 900-1100 C

Answer: (B)

Stoneware is a high-fire ceramic that is fired hotter than earthenware so the clay vitrifies and becomes non-porous and strong. Earthenware, by contrast, is fired at lower temperatures—typically below 1200 C—and remains more porous. While porcelain can also reach high temperatures, stoneware is generally associated with high-fire ranges. The option that best captures this is a broad high-fire range around 1200 to 1800 C, which includes the common stoneware temperatures and fits the high-fire nature. The lower end aligns with low-fire earthenware, and firing well above 1800 C is not typical for standard stoneware.