When selecting a Purple Clay Teapot, enthusiasts usually fear two things the most: first, buying a fake purple clay teapot, and second, purchasing one made from chemical-laden clay. So, how should one choose a good purple clay teapot?
Look at the Texture
Pure mine purple clay has a restrained luster, feels like warm jade, displays a stable color, and has an aged appearance. When using high-quality clay, noticeable results can be seen within half a month.
Teapots made from chemically treated clay show little change no matter how they are cared for; they remain dry and brittle. Although they may achieve a so-called green bean paste effect, the surface glaze (caused by the addition of wood shaving water, also known as quartz water) is too heavy. The Tea water does not penetrate, nor do the oils from handling, which means such a teapot cannot be properly conditioned over time.
Check Water Absorption
Genuine purple clay teapots, with the exception of those made from red clay and some segment clays, generally have strong water absorption capabilities. This is why it is often said that tea tastes better when brewed in a purple clay teapot compared to other types of teapots. Teapots made from chemically treated clay typically lack water absorption ability; water simply runs off the body of the teapot rather than being absorbed into it.
A simple test is to touch the teapot. A genuine purple clay teapot will usually absorb hand sweat quickly, whereas a chemically treated teapot will not.
Smell the Teapot
An unused purple clay teapot, when rinsed with boiling water, generally has no smell or only the scent of Pottery. Chemically treated teapots, when rinsed with boiling water, may emit a pungent odor or have a peculiar fragrance, and the water stains on the surface of the teapot are difficult to absorb into the body.
Observe Patina Formation
A purple clay teapot, after being used for a period of time, will develop a patina. Chemically treated teapots, no matter how much they are used, will mostly accumulate tea stains but rarely form a patina.
Examine the Craftsmanship
Due to modern manufacturing standards and high efficiency, teapots produced today are often perfectly symmetrical and meticulously crafted, appealing to many beginners. Handmade teapots, however, are created without identical molds; artisans rely solely on their skill and experience, crafting each piece according to their own preferences and requirements.
As a result, even teapots of the same design and specifications will vary in the shape of the body, diameter of the mouth, and the position, thickness, and height of the spout and handle. There will never be teapots that look exactly the same in appearance and specification. Pure mine purple clay is rare and valuable, making it impossible to produce large quantities through mechanization or mold production.
Therefore, distinguishing between traditional and modern craftsmanship is another aspect to consider when judging the quality of the clay.
Editor: Xiong Er, Cha Pao Pao Network