The Piece

A beautifully preserved pair of mid-century turquoise speckle dinner plates by Laurel of California, crafted during the height of the California pottery movement. These plates showcase an airy aqua-turquoise field scattered with fine iron speckling, creating an organic, stone-washed surface that feels both sculptural and serene. Minimal, modern, and unmistakably 1950s, they carry that effortless West Coast cool that defined the post-war era of American design.

Design & Construction

Hand-glazed turquoise stoneware with natural brown/iron speckling
Smooth satin finish with subtle tonal variation
Low, modernist profile with softly rounded rim
Impressed underside rings typical of mid-century studio production
Stamped “Laurel of California – USA – 6054”
Durable, weighty stoneware made for everyday use and casual modern entertaining

Date & Historical Context

Produced between 1953–1959, these plates fall squarely within the golden years of California pottery, when independent studios up and down the coast were redefining American tableware. Laurel’s speckled turquoise glaze is one of the quintessential mid-century colors—fresh, coastal, and aligned with the easygoing optimism of the era. This palette was frequently paired with blond wood, Danish influence, and indoor-outdoor living.

Condition

Excellent mid-century condition:

No chips, cracks, or glaze loss
Beautiful, even coloration
Minimal and expected signs of age
Both plates retain their crisp glaze and clean form

Title (SEO)

Mid-Century Laurel of California Turquoise Speckle Plates – Pair of Vintage 1950s Stoneware Dinner Plates

Meta Description

Authentic 1950s Laurel of California turquoise speckle dinner plates in hand-glazed stoneware. Classic mid-century California pottery with vibrant aqua tones and modernist form.