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Versace Buying Guide

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Versace by Rosenthal buying guide for New Zealand: how to buy the genuine article

How to read the backstamp, avoid look-alikes, choose the right Medusa or Baroque pattern and care for the gold, with tips from collectors around the world and three generations of local knowledge.

Written by a New Zealand family business with three generations of tableware and cookware knowledge

Pattern descriptions follow Rosenthal's own wording. Availability varies, so check our current Versace range.

How do you buy Versace by Rosenthal with confidence?

Look for the combined Rosenthal and Versace backstamp and the pattern name, buy from an established seller who can show the Rosenthal article number and a photo of the real base, choose a pattern that suits how you will use it, and care for gold decoration gently. Be wary of listings that say ‘Versace style’, ‘design’ or ‘inspired by’ with no base-mark photo.

  • It is a real collaboration. Rosenthal meets Versace began in 1992, with Medusa launching in 1993, and the porcelain is made by Rosenthal.
  • The base tells the story. Since 1992 the line has carried a combined Rosenthal and Versace mark, and pattern names appear on the base.
  • Rosenthal says it knows of no fakes of its porcelain, but look-alike and loosely worded listings exist. Check the mark, the article number and the seller.
  • Origin: Rosenthal says its porcelain is made in Germany. Glass, crystal and gifts can differ, so check each product page.
  • Care: most Rosenthal sets are dishwasher-safe, but Rosenthal recommends hand-washing delicate gold-detailed designs, including Medusa, Le Jardin and Barocco.
  • Local expertise: Michael Joyce Ltd imports Rosenthal x Versace for New Zealand and supports it with free delivery and 14-day returns on eligible items.

What is Versace by Rosenthal?

Versace by Rosenthal, officially Rosenthal meets Versace, is a luxury tableware and home collection created through the collaboration between the German porcelain maker Rosenthal and the Milanese fashion house Versace. It began in 1992 on the initiative of Gianni Versace, and its first collection, Medusa, followed in 1993. After Gianni's death in 1997, his sister Donatella Versace continued the collaboration.

Rosenthal describes the result as a symbiosis of solid German craftsmanship and breathtaking Italian design. The porcelain is made by Rosenthal, and the designs carry Versace's motifs: the Medusa head, the Greek key border, baroque ornaments and generous gold. Our Rosenthal meets Versace history page tells the full story.

How to read a Rosenthal meets Versace backstamp

The base of a piece is the quickest way to check it. Here is what to look for.

  • The combined mark. Since 1992, porcelain from the line has carried a trademark that joins the Rosenthal lettering with the Versace logo, the Medusa head.
  • The pattern name. Collector guides note that the pattern name appears on the base of pieces from the collaboration.
  • Crisp printing. The mark should be clear and sharp, not smudged or uneven.
  • The article number. Rosenthal items have article numbers, for example 19335-403714-10217 on the Jungle Animal plate shown on our product pages. A genuine seller can give you the number and you can match it to the collection.
  • An honest photo. Ask the seller for a photo of the actual base, not a picture from a catalogue or brochure.

Versace by Rosenthal buying tips from around the world

Collectors and shoppers in different countries pay attention to different things. Together they make a strong checklist.

What Versace by Rosenthal buyers look for, by region
Region What buyers look for What it means for you
Germany (Rosenthal's home) The right backstamp and clear care advice. Rosenthal says porcelain from the Rosenthal meets Versace line has carried a combined trademark since 1992, joining the Rosenthal lettering with the Versace logo (the Medusa head), and that collectors can use it to identify pieces from the collaboration. Rosenthal also says it knows of no fakes of its porcelain.
United States Buying by place setting and checking care. US retailers sell Versace by Rosenthal both as individual pieces and as one-person place settings, sometimes in a Versace gift box. Listings note that despite the gold trim the porcelain can go in the dishwasher, preferably at low temperatures.
Collectors and resale markets Base marks, pattern names and condition of the gold. Collectors compare the backstamp, the pattern name and the sharpness of the decoration, and ask sellers for photos of the base. Seller advice also warns that wording such as 'Versace design' or 'Versace style' does not mean a piece is genuine, and that catalogue photos are not photos of the item you will receive.
Europe (EU) Food-contact safety and clear information. Tableware used with food must meet EU food-contact rules (Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004). Reputable makers publish care and use information, including advice about decorated and gilded pieces.
Online marketplaces worldwide Low prices and big names. Anyone can write 'Versace' in a listing title. Ask for the Rosenthal article number, a clear photo of the base mark and the seller's returns policy before you pay.
New Zealand A local importer and consumer guarantees. A 2026 Remix Magazine feature describes Michael Joyce Ltd as a leading New Zealand importer and distributor of premium homeware including Rosenthal x Versace. Under the Consumer Guarantees Act, goods must be of acceptable quality, durable and as described, and the seller is responsible if not.

Genuine Rosenthal meets Versace vs imitations and look-alikes

Rosenthal says it knows of no fakes of its porcelain, and that is reassuring. But unbranded look-alikes and carefully worded listings do exist wherever a famous name sells well. The aim is to verify, not to assume. This table shows what to expect from the genuine article.

Genuine Rosenthal meets Versace compared with a typical imitation
What to check Genuine, from an established seller Typical imitation or mis-described listing
Backstamp A combined Rosenthal and Versace mark on the base, with the pattern name No mark, a blurry mark, or a mark you cannot match to Rosenthal's
Article numbers A Rosenthal article number you can match to the maker's product listing, in the style shown on our product pages (for example 19335-403714-10217) No number, or one that matches nothing
Listing wording 'Rosenthal meets Versace' or 'Versace by Rosenthal', with the pattern name 'Versace design', 'Versace style', 'inspired by' or 'Medusa-style'
Decoration Crisp gold, sharp Medusa and baroque detail, even colour, smooth glaze Blurry or uneven decoration, thin or patchy gold, rough glaze
Shape and weight A consistent, well-finished shape from a known Rosenthal collection Odd proportions, wobbly feet, pieces that do not match any collection
Packaging Rosenthal or Versace packaging, often a gift box Plain box, generic packaging or none
Origin Rosenthal states its porcelain is made in Germany. Glass, crystal and gifts can differ, so check each product page No origin stated, or a vague 'designed in' claim
Seller and photos An established seller with returns, who shows the real item and its base Anonymous seller using brochure or catalogue photos
Price Consistent with Rosenthal's pricing, with traceable discounts A small fraction of the price with no explanation

Seven red flags

  • The listing says 'Versace style', 'design' or 'inspired by' instead of Rosenthal meets Versace.
  • There is no photo of the base mark, or the photo comes from a brochure.
  • The price is a fraction of the normal range with no explanation.
  • The seller cannot give a Rosenthal article number or pattern name.
  • The gold looks thin or uneven and the Medusa detail is soft.
  • The seller is anonymous with no returns policy or phone number.
  • The packaging is plain or does not look like Rosenthal or Versace gift packaging.

Which Versace pattern should you choose?

Use the pattern picker above for a quick answer, then compare the main designs here. We have supplied many Rosenthal meets Versace collections over the years, and availability changes, so check the current range.

Popular Rosenthal meets Versace patterns
Pattern Look Good for
Medusa Red Red, gold and black with the Medusa head, on the Icarus shape with golden winged handles Dramatic, statement tables
Medusa Blue The Medusa design in an elegant blue A cooler take on the classic
I Love Baroque Baroque prints in black, white and gold on matt, colourfast backgrounds (2017) Monochrome glamour and gifts
Virtus Gala Black and white with gold detailing Formal entertaining
Medusa Gala Gold All-over gold flags and ribbons Maximum opulence
Medusa Rhapsody Medusa and baroque flowers in golden shades around the Versace 90s vintage logo Collectors who love the 1990s look
Medusa Amplified Pop-art Medusa heads in vivid or pastel colours Modern, playful tables
Jungle Animalier Jungle print with animalier patterns and Medusa accents Bold, colourful hosting
Le Jardin de Versace Butterfly motifs and gold ornaments in delicate colours Romantic, lighter tables
La Scala del Palazzo Inspired by the marble staircase at Palazzo Versace in Milan (2018) Elegant dinner services

Building your Versace table

Start with a statement piece

A platter, a bowl or a few plates in a bold pattern can carry a whole table. Many hosts mix them with simpler white porcelain.

Choose by place setting

Buy plates, cups and saucers in the numbers you use. Some patterns are also offered as gift-boxed place settings in other markets, so check what is available.

Add the details

The range goes beyond plates: vases, decanters, salad bowls, drink coasters, champagne flutes, a vegetable dish with the Versace emblem and gifts, which Michael Joyce Ltd imports.

Check the sizes

Plate sizes vary by pattern. Rosenthal's I Love Baroque listings, for example, include plates of 10 cm, 18 cm and 22 cm. Always check dimensions on each product page.

Versace by Rosenthal as a gift

Rosenthal meets Versace has a wide gift range, including vases and mini vases, porcelain boxes with Medusa lids, napkin rings, tea lights, scented candles, a bar collection and the Medusa Grande vase. Some pieces come in a Versace gift box. A gift from this range is easy to recognise and easy to enjoy, and it suits weddings, milestone birthdays and housewarmings. See our giftware and Versace collections for what is available now.

How to care for Versace porcelain

  • Hand-wash delicate gold-detailed pieces. Rosenthal says most of its sets are dishwasher-safe, but recommends hand-washing delicate pieces with precious detailing, and says the same applies to Rosenthal meets Versace designs including Medusa, Le Jardin de Versace and Barocco.
  • If you use a dishwasher, use a gentle, low-temperature cycle. A US listing for Medusa Red says the porcelain is dishwasher-safe despite its gold trim, preferably at low temperatures.
  • Be careful in the microwave. Rosenthal's UK page lists its Versace tableware sets as microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe. As a precaution, keep metallic decoration out of the microwave unless the pattern's instructions say it is fine.
  • Avoid abrasive pads and harsh cleaners that can dull gold and decoration.
  • Store pieces with care, using felt or paper between plates so decoration is not scratched.
  • Follow the instructions for your exact pattern. Care advice can differ between designs.

Versace by Rosenthal at Michael Joyce Ltd

Browse the Versace range and related pieces. Stock, patterns and prices change, so check each product page.

Why trust Michael Joyce Ltd? Three generations of knowledge

Advice about Versace dinnerware is only worth having if it comes from people who have sold the products, handled the problems and watched what lasts. Here is who is behind this guide.

1950s
Harold and Joan Blampied

Owners of a china shop, they began importing quality china and tableware into New Zealand at a time when European products were far harder to source, and built a business around well-made goods and personal service.

The second generation
Michael and Jenny Joyce

They took the business over and grew it from its retail beginnings into a nationwide wholesale operation, building long relationships with independent retailers across New Zealand.

Today
Kristin and Matthew Joyce

The third generation runs Michael Joyce Ltd as a New Zealand family-owned and operated business, combining their grandparents’ retail knowledge with their parents’ wholesale experience, in wholesale and e-commerce.

3 generationsOne New Zealand family business, more than 60 years of knowledge
70+ stockistsSupplying independent retailers around New Zealand
Free NZ deliveryFree delivery throughout New Zealand
14-day returnsEligible items, unused and in original packaging, within 14 days of delivery

“Choose good products. Know what you sell. Price them fairly. Look after your customers. And build relationships for the long term.”

That is how the family describes its approach on its about page. In practice it means we answer the phone on 0800 222 021, we tell you when a product is not right for what you want to do, and we only put our name to brands with real history and craftsmanship. See our returns and delivery pages for full terms.

Versace by Rosenthal frequently asked questions

What is Rosenthal meets Versace?

Rosenthal meets Versace is a luxury tableware and home collection created through the collaboration between the German porcelain maker Rosenthal and the Milanese fashion house Versace. It began in 1992 on the initiative of Gianni Versace and brings Versace's Medusa and baroque designs to porcelain, glass and gifts.

Is Versace dinnerware actually made by Rosenthal?

Yes. Versace dinnerware is produced by Rosenthal in a long-running collaboration. Rosenthal says the combination brings together solid German craftsmanship and Italian design, and the porcelain carries a combined Rosenthal and Versace mark.

Is Versace by Rosenthal made in Germany?

Rosenthal states that its porcelain is made in Germany, and Michael Joyce Ltd presents Rosenthal meets Versace dinnerware as German-made. Glass, crystal and gift items in the range can be made differently, so check the product page for the item you are buying.

How can I tell if Versace Rosenthal porcelain is genuine?

Look at the base for the combined Rosenthal and Versace mark and the pattern name, ask for the Rosenthal article number, check that the decoration is crisp, and buy from an established seller who shows the real item and its base. Be wary of listings that say Versace style, design or inspired by.

Are there fake Rosenthal Versace plates?

Rosenthal says it knows of no fakes of its porcelain. However, look-alikes and carefully worded listings exist on open marketplaces, so always check the base mark and the seller. Seller advice notes that wording such as Versace design does not mean the piece is genuine.

What does the Rosenthal meets Versace backstamp look like?

Since 1992, porcelain from the collaboration has carried a combined trademark that joins the Rosenthal lettering with the Versace logo, the Medusa head, and collector guides note that the pattern name appears on the base. The printing should be crisp and clear.

Is Versace Rosenthal dinnerware dishwasher-safe?

Rosenthal says most of its sets are dishwasher-safe but recommends hand-washing delicate pieces with precious detailing, including Rosenthal meets Versace designs such as Medusa, Le Jardin de Versace and Barocco. If you use a dishwasher, choose a gentle, low-temperature cycle and follow the instructions for your pattern.

Can Versace Rosenthal go in the microwave?

Rosenthal's UK page lists its Versace tableware sets as microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe. As a precaution, keep pieces with metallic gold decoration out of the microwave unless the instructions for that pattern say otherwise.

Which Versace dinnerware pattern should I choose?

Choose Medusa Red or Medusa Blue for the classic Medusa look, I Love Baroque or Virtus Gala for black, white and gold, Medusa Gala Gold or Medusa Rhapsody for opulent gold, Medusa Amplified or Jungle Animalier for colour, and Le Jardin de Versace or La Scala del Palazzo for a softer look. Use the pattern picker on this page.

What is Medusa Red?

Medusa Red is a design by Gianni Versace in red, gold and black, with elaborate gold flourishes and the Medusa head on a warm brick-red background. It is made on the Icarus shape, with golden winged handles.

What is I Love Baroque?

I Love Baroque is a 2017 Rosenthal meets Versace dining collection that reinterprets the heritage of the Maison with baroque prints, urns, laurels and ornaments in black, white and gold on a matt, colourfast background.

Is Versace by Rosenthal worth the price?

It is a luxury collection. You are paying for German porcelain craftsmanship, intricate gold decoration, Versace's design and the collectability of a long-running collaboration that began in 1992. Whether it is worth it depends on how much you value those things and how you will use it.

Does Michael Joyce Ltd sell Versace gifts as well as dinnerware?

Yes. Michael Joyce Ltd imports Rosenthal x Versace vases, decanters, salad bowls, drink coasters, champagne flutes, gifts and dinnerware, as well as a vegetable dish with the Versace emblem. Stock changes, so check the Versace collection for what is available now.

What are my rights if a piece is faulty in New Zealand?

Under the Consumer Guarantees Act, goods sold by a business must be of acceptable quality, which includes being safe, durable and free from defects, and must match their description. If they do not, you can ask the seller for a repair, replacement or refund. This is general information, not legal advice.

Does Michael Joyce Ltd offer free delivery and returns?

Yes. Michael Joyce Ltd offers free delivery throughout New Zealand, and eligible items can be returned within 14 days of delivery if they are unused and in their original packaging. See the returns page for the full terms or call 0800 222 021.

Why buy Versace by Rosenthal from Michael Joyce Ltd?

Michael Joyce Ltd is a New Zealand family business in its third generation, with more than 60 years of knowledge of porcelain, tableware and giftware and more than 70 stockists. We import Rosenthal meets Versace directly, handpick pieces that will stand the test of time, and will tell you honestly which pattern suits you.