When buying or enjoying a Teapot, one must consider the quality of the clay. However, there are many differing opinions on this topic, making it difficult to discern the truth. Many people struggle with this issue. But if you are a lover of Teapots, you will eventually have to face this question. It can be challenging, but at the same time, it's not that hard. No matter what type of clay is used, high-quality clay has distinct characteristics. For us enthusiasts who love, buy, and enjoy teapots, recognizing these features isn't too difficult.

The first thing about a teapot is that it should look comfortable, with a natural and restrained luster. In the case of purple clay teapots, the luster sought after is a “subdued glow,” meaning the sheen appears reserved, emanating from within and outward in a very gentle manner, which is pleasant to the eye. This matte finish is referred to by industry insiders as “water color,” and good quality clay must have excellent water color.

When you gently caress the surface of the pot, you'll find that high-quality purple clay feels smooth and fine, with an even distribution of particles, without any roughness or greasiness. Good purple clay teapots have a granular texture, uneven to the touch, yet they feel polished when touched. When you stroke a Purple Clay Teapot with your hand, freshly made ones may feel a bit dry, which is normal. After some use and care, it becomes as smooth as jade.

Good clay has excellent breathability.

High-quality clay boasts exceptional breathability. In “The Catalogue of Superfluous Things,” there is a description of purple clay teapots: “Clay teapots are the best, as they do not overpower the Tea's aroma and do not produce a stale smell.” The term “stale smell” refers to a sour odor. Ancient people cherished tea and sometimes drank tea left overnight. At such times, the choice of brewing vessel was crucial. If the container didn't breathe well, the tea would develop a sour smell the next day. Ancient people discovered that tea brewed in a purple clay teapot wouldn't spoil overnight, remaining clear and drinkable. I've done tests using top-grade original mountain purple clay; tea brewed with ripe Pu'er and left for three to four days did not go bad. Therefore, the breathability of high-quality purple clay is beyond doubt.

Speaking of breathability, we should mention red clay (zhuni). Everyone knows that red clay doesn't breathe well, which is due to its clay properties. Red clay contracts significantly and has a high degree of crystallization, making it rather unique. However, if you use it to Brew teas like Tie Guan Yin that require the enhancement of aroma, it works perfectly well. In this case, breathability isn't necessary.

High-quality clay offers great playability.

Good clay offers excellent playability. That is, through regular use and care, the results are very attractive. As the saying goes, “After long-term use, the pot develops a subdued luster,” “As refined as a gentleman, as bold as a man… As reserved as a hermit, as graceful as a youth.”

The playability of purple clay refers to the changes in patina during the process of regular use and care.

Top-quality clay shows changes with each use:

Teapots made from aged clay and crafted by hand are the best, very easy to care for. There are noticeable changes after each session of use and care, becoming increasingly elegant and warm over time, comparable to beautiful jade.

In summary, purple clay is indeed magical. Each type of raw ore purple clay has its unique characteristics. Generally speaking, with the best quality material, you don't need to wait a month or two, or even three to five days. You will see subtle changes after just one session of use and care.

Source: Purple Clay Teapot Encyclopedia. Information is valuable when shared. If there are any copyright issues, please contact us to remove it.