Frequently Asked Questions - Echo's China

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions we can assist with?

Expand the following sections for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we get from our customers. If you don’t see an answer to your question, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

How do you do your measurements?

This is a very difficult question as many of our patterns have been produced for 40-50 years. The sizes and shapes of cups and saucers and serving pieces often change. This is the reason all the discontinued china companies measure differently.

That said, we came up with our own system as follows*:

Height

We remove lids from all covered pieces before measuring the height of the vessel (i.e.: tea/coffee pots, sugar bowls, vegetable bowls, casseroles, etc).

Width

We measure the widest part of the item. For pieces with handles, (i.e.: cups, cream soups, gravy boats, tea/coffee pots) we do not include the handle in the measurement.

Length

We measure the longest part of the item. For pieces with handles, (i.e.: tea/coffee pots, gravy boats, sugar bowls, creamers) we do not include the handle in the measurement.

Other Considerations

  • In the measurements, we do not include stands (gravy boats/cream soups, covered butter dishes) or saucers.
  • We measure flatware face down. This means the bowl of the spoon would face the table. This also applies to forks and serving pieces.
  • Waterford crystal stemware is only measured by height.
  • We do not measure After Dinner Cream and Sugar.
  • We do not measure anything under 2”.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you want further information and/or clarification.

* NOTE: all the pieces are approximate measurements.

Are the photos showing on your website the actual piece I am buying?
No. As you can imagine we would have to provide thousands of photos of each piece due to the varying range of colours and shapes. We find the customers who are collecting appreciate this feature and are happy that not everything is exactly the same. However, if you are the type of person who wants everything “ matchy matchy” we suggest you come into the shop if possible, or please contact us. We can email you photos of the exact piece you are buying. Remember, we do guarantee our products as we want you to love them.

Do you buy china, crystal and flatware?

Yes, in addition to selling china, silver flatware and Waterford crystal, we also purchase it. Please complete this Sell To Us form with the details on your item(s) and we will be in touch.

Does the price include shipping?

All Canadian orders over $150.00 include free shipping. All other orders either within Canada or international are charged shipping, handling and insurance. The shipping cost is determined by the number of pieces we are shipping and where it is being shipped to. Our china, flatware and crystal is packed by experienced packers and shipped via Canada post.

How long have you been in business?

We have been in business for over 35 years and have earned a reputation worldwide for excellent service and top quality discontinued china and silver. More about us.

What if I am unhappy with the quality of my china or flatware purchase?

All china/flatware is returnable. If your item(s) arrive damaged, please contact us within 48-hours.

Do we handle china or flatware that’s not listed?

Unfortunately we only have room to inventory listed manufacturers. We will be happy to provide you with referrals to other websites for those manufacturers we don’t handle. Please contact us.

Where do you get your inventory?

We buy from individuals who have inherited china/flatware, changed lifestyles or tastes. We also purchase from retail stores that have discontinued inventory.

Why is my discontinued china so expensive?

Basically, its a matter of supply and demand. Sometimes we have 50 to 60 people looking for the same pattern. Also price depends on our source and what we have to pay for it. It is also important to remember 90% of china is no longer made in England. The pieces we sell are precious keepsakes to be cherished and well worth the value.

How do I know my credit card number is secure?

We have put measures in place to ensure that our shopping cart is fully encrypted. As an additional safety measure we do not keep a record of your credit card in the store or on our computers.

Do you give out my email address to other companies?

No. Your email address is only used to inform you when stock in your china, silver, or crystal pattern becomes available and to let you know about sales and other promotions.

What if I want a photo of a piece of china and it shows as “coming soon?”

We are in the process of taking thousands of photos for our website. In the meantime, please contact us and we would be happy to email you a photo.

What happens if I am having a problem purchasing or registering on your website?

By all means please contact us. We will be happy to help you!

Do you have gift cards?

Yes, we offer gift cards for $25.00 and up. Simply contact us and we can arrange for it to be mailed directly to you or your special someone.