Ceramic is the oldest form of cookware. In the 60-70's, it was ceramic. In the 80's, Teflon nonstick. In 2000, stainless. In 2010, copper. Recently, ceramic cookware has become more popular since we have learned the health risks of Teflon nonstick, which has continued to be the most popular other than ceramic.

Most people know that ceramic is healthier than nonstick because Teflon contains PFOA and PFE, a toxic chemical used in the nonstick coating. Because of these concerns, ceramic is advertised as a safe alternative to Teflon. It is also advertised as healthy because it needs less oil and fat and is better for the environment. Ceramic offers the benefits of nonstick without the dangers. It comes in two types, pure ceramic and ceramic coated.

Knowing all this, the most important thing is cost of ceramic, to most of us. In this article we will talk about costs of ceramic cookware. Pure ceramic sets are more costly, because less companies sell it, yet it is touted as the best. It is more involved to make, being cast from a mold, dipped in a glaze, and fired. (that's why it is recommended that ceramic cookware takes low to medium heat).

You can expect to pay upward of $250, maybe $280-499, although Xtrema has been seen up to $649. But it is quality cookware too, and a good piece of quality pure ceramic can last for 50 years if taken care of. You will know pure ceramic because it does not have metal handles or glass lids.

Ceramic coated sets may be slightly more expensive than nonstick, but the price is manageable and not too far off the beaten path. The prices of this type of cookware can vary due to manufacturer, and there are many brands of pieces and sets that you can buy on a budget. However, it’s best to buy one that will do the job. The prices range depending on the quantity and quality of ceramic. You can expect to pay $75-250 for a set.

An important consideration in cost is the warranty and durability. Is it worth it? Is there a warranty? Will I really take care of it or will it need to be replaced in a couple years?

Care is not the first on a buyers mind, but it will definitely make that pan last. Pure ceramic can last for 50 years if taken care of. Some brands of ceramic coated cookware offer a 10 year, some a 2 year, some none.

Look for the ones that do. This really should not be a deciding factor though--although it helps--because there can be exclusions to the warranty. For example, ceramic is dishwasher safe but a warranty may not include dishwasher damage. That means damage from other pots and pans or dishes clicking together,

usually.

Quality is the key to purchase. The best rated ceramic coated cookware sets for ease of use and cost are Greenpan and Cuisinart, with WearEver coming in third. Your lower average price of a good ceramic coated set will be $140. The best rated pure ceramic cookware sets are Xtrema, with a set costing $288-$439. Don't be afraid to spend money on a good cookware set, but remember you get what you pay for! Remember, it all depends on what you need. Everyone needs a good nonstick fry pan. Everyone needs a good nonstick saute pan. That is definite --the rest is up to you. Sets are much more convenient and if you can afford it worth the cost, because you have everything at once.Don't be afraid to spend money on a good cookware set, but remember you get what you pay for! Remember, it all depends on what you need. Everyone needs a good nonstick fry pan. Everyone needs a good nonstick saute pan. That is definite --the rest is up to you. Sets are much more convenient and if you can afford it worth the cost, because you have everything at once.