Purple Sand Teapots
Yixing clay is often called Zisha clay,which is only found in Yixing,China. Zisha translates to "purple sand", as it is made up of iron, quartz,and mica. The first YiXing teapot was created during the Song Dynasty(960-1279). Over time,such teapots became regarded as fine sculpture pieces,and became prized collector's items all over the world. Classic pot shapes ranged from the ordinary (vegetables, insects or simple objects in daily life) to the extraordinary (ritual vessels, convoluted rocks or mythical creatures).
Characteristics of Purple Sand Teapots
Authentic purple clay possesses unique properties. These properties are best recognized in the very layers of the earth in which they are created. It is said that using Zisha clay will eliminate any stomach discomfort sometimes associated with green tea consumption.
What makes an Yixing teapot unique is that the inside is never glazed, highly prized for its porous nature which is excellent at absorbing the flavor of the tea brewed in it and, over a period of time, the pot is literally infused with the tea flavor. The longer you have a Yixing tea pot the more beautiful it becomes.
Tips
Purple sand teapot should never be washed using detergents, but with water only and it's better to use each tea vessel for one kind of tea (white, green, oolong, or black) or sometimes even one variety of tea only.
Why Are the Purple Sand Teapots so Small?
According to an ancient Chinese verse, “If one tastes tea by himself, he would attain true spirit. If two people taste tea, they would know true pleasure. If three people taste tea, they would learn to appreciate true quality. If any more than this taste tea together, it is a waste of a fine brew." Perhaps, this prescription for a limited number of tea drinkers may be the reason.
Is It Safe to Use?
Yixing teapot that is make from Zisha clay which is free of lead, arsenic, cadmium, and other toxic materials.The Yixing teapot has a fine and solid texture, a four percent water absorption rate, a very low thermal conductivity, and a double air hole design which enhances the pot's brewing properties. Statistics in China shows the mineral deposits are very healthy for people who has high blood pressure, high cholesterol. It promotes longevity.
How to Appraise Purple Sand Teapots?
1. Place the pot upside down. If its mouth, spout, and handle aligned in one axel, it's a good pot. A good pot won' sink when place in water.
2. Put some water in the pot and hold it upside down, holding the lid and blocking the spout with your hands. If no water comes out, it's a good pot.
3. A good teapot doesn't make the tea sour or go bad.
4. If water spills out of the teapot and quickly evaporates, it's a good pot.
5. A good teapot will smell like tea, even if there is only boiling water in it.
6. A good teapot that has been used will have a smoother surface than a new one.
Manufacturer or Supplier of Product:
Heji Zhangsheng Tea Utensil
Relative Site (URL):
http://www.zsjp.com/
