Ancient Chinese people were very particular about their teacups. As the saying goes, “In spring, the ox-eye cup is best; in summer, the chestnut cup; in autumn, the lotus leaf cup; and in winter, the hanging seed cup.” While modern people may not be as strict, those who appreciate a refined lifestyle still tend to choose different Tea sets for different types of tea. So, how exactly should we choose our tea sets?

Let's first take a look at the main types of tea sets available today. Generally speaking, among the most common are porcelain tea sets and clay tea sets, followed by glass tea sets, with other types being relatively rare. Porcelain has the advantage of not conducting heat quickly, maintaining moderate insulation, and not reacting chemically with the tea, which allows for a better color, aroma, and taste when brewing tea. It also features beautiful shapes and intricate decorations, giving it artistic value. Clay tea sets are known for their elegant shapes and rustic colors. When used to brew tea, they produce a mellow flavor and clear broth, maintain good heat retention, and prevent the tea from spoiling even in summer. The most typical example would be the familiar purple clay teapot.

The selection of tea sets should not only focus on the utensils themselves but also pay attention to their external appearance. Only by harmonizing the function, material, and color of the tea set can one select the perfect set. In comparison, there are fewer options for clay tea sets than porcelain ones. Apart from white porcelain, celadon, and black porcelain, porcelain tea sets come in various patterns and designs, rich in color and variety.

Having discussed so much, what kind of tea sets should we choose for different types of tea?

Green Tea: The essence of green tea is its clear water and green leaves, so the choice of tea set is particularly important. Thin-walled, heat-dispersing, dense, and non-absorbent (aromatic) tea sets are recommended, such as glass cups and thin porcelain cups.

Floral Tea: Celadon, blue-and-white porcelain lidded bowls, cups, and pot-cup sets.

Black Tea: Black tea is best brewed in white porcelain and served in a glass cup to showcase its three characteristics: the “gemstone light,” “golden halo,” and “ruby red broth.”

White Tea: White tea requires higher water temperatures for brewing, so tea sets with good heat retention are preferred, with ceramic and stone sets being the best choices.

Oolong Tea: Purple clay teapot sets, or white porcelain teapot sets, lidded pots, and lidded cups.

Dark Tea: Dark tea can be brewed or boiled, and is best paired with clay tea sets or coarser-grained purple clay tea sets. The absorbency of these materials helps eliminate any off-flavors that may have developed during storage, thus enhancing the unique qualities of dark tea.

White Porcelain Tea Set

Glass Tea Set

Rice Hat Cup

Celadon Tea Set

Aroma Cup

Purple Clay Teapot