Teapots made from Yixing purple clay are extolled by aficionados as superior to all other types of teapots for brewing tea. This is attributed to the unglazed state of the teapots after firing that retains its porous nature, which is excellent for absorbing the flavor and aroma of tea. After prolonged use, a rich patina will gradually develop inside the teapot, which enhances the taste, color and aroma of the tea. Externally, the pot's unglazed surface absorbs oils from the tea making its appearance more and more lustrous with age and use. Legend has it that if a purple clay teapot has been used for a long time, one can simply pour hot water into the teapot to brew a cup of tea without using leaves.

Besides their unique tea brewing quality, these delicately handcrafted, elegant Yixing teapots are also noted for their artistic beauty and are therefore many people's favorites.

However, if you would like to use the poetic purple clay teapot to brew a good cup of tea, two important steps must first be taken: how to treat a new teapot and matching the pot with the right type of tea. To treat a new teapot, one must remove any residue and clay odors in the pot. After treatment, one should explore which type of tea quality is most enhanced by a particular teapot.

Purple clay is in fact midway between earthenware and porcelain. Clay similar to Yixing clay in color and appearance can be found in many parts of China and Europe, as well, but they lack the sandy consistency that makes Yixing clay so unique. Its unique quality makes it a perfect candidate for delicate handcrafted creations. Therefore, purple clay can be molded into teapots, tea ware and other handicrafts.

Purple clay ware made completely by hand is not only excellent for brewing tea but also beautiful. Its rare beauty is derived from the variety of colors, texture, exceptional artistic designs in form and shape, exquisite free-hand skills and superb workmanship. Only a perfect and harmonious combination of all of these elements leads to the paramount status of purple clay ware.

Purple clay occurs naturally in three colors: purple, red and buff yellow. These clays can be used independently or mixed together or combined with minerals or artificial pigments to form a variety of colors.

Among the different kinds of clay, pure red clay and buff yellow are in very short supply.

The designs and shapes of clay ware can be classified into three main categories: natural, geometric shapes or artistic style. Another way of classification is to simply define them as plain or decorated teapots.

In addition, calligraphy, painting, intricate carvings and sculptures are also incorporated into the teapots, making this art form a unique expression of Chinese art.

Modern craftsmen or artisans not only produce replicas of old pots, but also create new and innovative designs which contribute to the individual character of each teapot. Many aspects of Chinese culture have been embodied and preserved through the medium of these valuable artworks.

Each purple clay ware is a handmade work of art, and it may take artisans many years to develop and mature their skill and technique. With the various levels of forming or potting techniques, the same design can be found at several quality levels.

For instance, the art of making plain geometric ware is easiest to learn but most difficult to master. Plain geometric ware is completely exposed due to its simplicity and plainness. The slightest deviation will become more glaring compared to products of greater intricacy. Therefore, high quality purple clay ware is usually considered the best work of the highest caliber.

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