Lu-Ray pastels debuted in 1938 near the end of the Great Depression. Manufactured by the Taylor, Smith & Taylor Company of Chester, West Virginia, Lu-Ray shapes were mostly borrowed from the company's Laurel & Empire lines. When introduced, Lu-Ray was available in four pastel glazes. They were Sharon Pink, Windsor Blue, Persian Cream and Surf Green. In 1949, a fifth glaze, Chatham Gray, was added. Many pieces are stamped and dated with a month and year code. Lu-Ray is simple yet elegant. Discontinued in 1961, Lu-Ray is the premiere pastel mid-century American dinnerware line.