Fiesta is a dinnerware pattern produced by The Homer Laughlin Company of East Liverpool, Ohio. Originally introduced in 1935, it went through several color variations to keep pace with current trends and fashions. It was discontinued in 1973.

Given the continued popularity of Fiesta on the secondary market, it isn't surprising that Homer Laughlin redesigned and reissued Fiesta in 1985. Many of the serving pieces were reconfigured, changing sizes and slightly changing shapes. The changes were designed to closely mimic the original, vintage Fiesta, while having enough differentiation to be relatively easy to determine the age of a piece and to be suitable for modern living.

An easy way to distinguish between the vintage Fiesta and reissued Fiesta is to familiarize yourself with the colors that Homer Laughlin used. Reissued Fiesta was originally available in white, black, rose, apricot and (dark) cobalt blue. Since the first color assortment was issued, nearly 30 other colors have been marketed, including Lilac, Plum and Chocolate! It's a testament to Frederick Rhead (Fiesta's designer) and Homer Laughlin that even some of the early reissued Fiesta is now vintage!

Another way to determine the age of a piece is to look at the mark on the bottom. Homer Laughlin purposely changed the marks on the newer lines to help buyers and sellers alike distinguish reissued and vintage Fiesta pieces. For additional information, there are reference books and websites that outline and give examples of marks as well as colors by name and production dates.

Homer Laughlin created a wonderful dinnerware that has stood the test of time and graced many tables since it was first introduced 77 years ago! It will be interesting to follow Fiesta into the future.

Written by Anita

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