10 Strawberry Street Nova Square 45 Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set, Matte Black

I read other reviews that complained about black ink stains and broken pieces. I did notice my box was double packed and the outer box wasn't tight which the fedex guy said shouldn't be that way, but never-the-less, nothing was broken (the inside box was packed well). As for black smudges, there was one serving bowl that had 2 little black smudges, which I tried to get off with alcohol and nail polish remover and it didn't come off - looks like it could be baked in. However, it really doesn't bother me. The color was fine. Not quite bright white, but they match my white bowl I already have just fine (they are not a light tan. They are much lighter than that.). My husband did remark that the bottom edges were a little rough - as though unfinished, but my thinking is that with use, they'll soften up. The salt and pepper shaker weren't my taste, so I'll be giving those away, but for the price- with 45 pieces - I thought it was a beautiful set. The dishes look beautiful in my cabinet stacked, and when served with food actually on them, looked like nice quality pieces. Almost makes my cooking look gourmet (which it isn't)! Humor aside, I do think it's a beautiful set and I'm hoping the porcelain is more durable then the stoneware I've been using. I've already put steak on them (which obviously I used my knife on the plate), and they held up - no scratches. Soo - I don't know if the manufacturer read previous reviews and improved their product or what, but I am very pleased with the look - the set looks beautiful and classy. I wanted a set of 12 on the dishes and bowls, so I actually ordered one set of 45 and another set of 19. This gave me a set of 12 on just the items that I need more of.

I LUV my set, it's awesome! Very stylish also. It came super fast, thanx 2 FedEx. The individual pieces were very carefully packed, which is great cuz I'm not gonna use this set until we move next month. This brand is also carried @ Tuesday Morning, but NOT for this price! Everyone shud own this set :)