"Betsy" > wrote in message
ps.com...
>I am looking into purchasing a new set of casual dinnerware (either:
> Noritake pattern (Java Blue Swirl) or Villeroy & Boch patterns (French
> Garden and Switch 3)). Does anyone have any opinions/information
> regarding the durability of these types of dinnerware? As I will be
> using these dishes on a daily basis, I will be washing the dishes in
> the dishwasher regularly and will be using them in the microwave.
> Inevitably there will be some breakage but I would like a casual
> dinnerware that will last a long time. Also, do these dishes get
> scratches on them from using a sharp knife or any other type of wear
> marks after a few years or more of use? Thanks.
>

I have experience with using Noritake "Shannon Spring" every day for
nine years. It is very nice stuff, heavy with a nice thick glaze. It has
shown
no noticable wear at all, scratches etc.

I found an example of Java Blue Swirl on ebay for you, and the price
for a place setting is not bad at all compared to others.

http://tinyurl.com/27qepg

I don't think you can go wrong with Noritake.