Fiesta Color History
Fiesta Classic Dinnerware is an independent online retailer of genuine Fiesta® dinnerware. We are not affiliated with, authorized by, or sponsored by The Fiesta Tableware Company. The information below is based on publicly available statements from the brand.
Did you know Fiesta has introduced over 50 different colors since 1936? From the original Art Deco five to today’s ever‑evolving palette, each color tells a story — and collectors have been chasing them for generations.
🎨 The Vintage Era (1936–1972): Where It All Began
Fiesta made its debut at the Pottery and Glass Show in Pittsburgh in January 1936. The original line launched in five colors designed to lift spirits during the Great Depression. A sixth color followed the next year.
| Color | Year Introduced |
|---|---|
| Red, Yellow, Cobalt Blue, Light Green, Old Ivory | 1936 |
| Turquoise | 1937 |
The 1950s brought a softer pastel palette, while the 1960s leaned into earthy tones.
| Color | Year Introduced |
|---|---|
| Forest Green, Rose, Chartreuse, Grey | 1951 |
| Medium Green | 1959 |
Medium Green (1959–1969) is widely regarded as one of the rarest and most collectible vintage Fiesta colors.
The late 1960s introduced a new wave of earthy colors.
| Color | Year Introduced |
|---|---|
| Antique Gold, Turf Green (Avocado), Mango Red | 1969 |
Red was discontinued in 1943 because the uranium oxide used in its glaze was needed for the Manhattan Project during World War II. It returned in 1969 as Mango Red.
By the end of 1972, Fiesta was discontinued. Production ceased for 13 years.
🎨 The Modern Era (1986–Present): Revival & Reinvention
Prompted by growing collector demand, Fiesta was revived in 1986 with a new color palette.
| Color | Year Introduced |
|---|---|
| Rose, Black, Cobalt, White, Apricot | 1986 |
Since then, new colors have been introduced almost every year. Notable additions include:
| Color | Year Introduced |
|---|---|
| Periwinkle, Sea Mist Green | c. 1989–1991 |
| Lilac | 1993 |
| Persimmon, Sapphire | c. 1995–1996 |
| Chartreuse, Pearl Gray | 1997–1998 |
| Juniper, Cinnabar, Sunflower, Plum, Shamrock | 1999–2003 |
| Tangerine, Scarlet, Peacock, Heather, Evergreen | 2004–2008 |
| Ivory, Chocolate, Lemongrass, Paprika, Marigold | 2008–2012 |
| Flamingo, Lapis, Poppy, Slate | 2013–2016 |
| Sage (2015–2018), Claret, Daffodil, Mulberry | 2017–2019 |
| Meadow | 2019 |
| Butterscotch | 2020 |
| Twilight | 2021 |
| Peony | 2022 |
| Jade | 2023 |
The brand typically keeps 13 to 16 colors in production at any given time, periodically retiring older colors to make room for new arrivals.
✨ New for 2026: Lavender
To celebrate Fiesta’s 90th anniversary, the brand introduced Lavender as its 2026 color. It’s the latest shade in a colorful legacy that spans nearly a century.
“We chose lavender as our 90th-anniversary color to reflect the peacefulness and tranquility of purple in nature.” — Maggie McIlvain Kuntz, Fiesta Tableware Company
A three‑piece place setting in Lavender is $39.99.
💎 Collector’s Notes: Rarity & Value
Some colors are highly sought after by collectors:
-
Medium Green (1959–1969) — one of the rarest vintage colors
-
Lilac (1993–1995) — a modern collectible
-
Sage (2015–2018) — retired after just three years
-
Cobalt Blue, Turf Green, Antique Gold, Gray, Chartreuse, Rose, Forest Green — all highly collectible vintage shades
Questions?
If you have any questions about Fiesta colors or products, please reach out — we’re happy to help.
Email: service@fiestadinnerware.it.com
Phone: 1-888-822-533
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET
Fiesta Classic Dinnerware is an independent online retailer of genuine Fiesta® dinnerware. We are not affiliated with, authorized by, or sponsored by The Fiesta Tableware Company. Fiesta® is a registered trademark of The Fiesta Tableware Company. All product names, logos, and brands are property of their respective owners.