- Porcelain is a particular kind of ceramic known for its smooth sheen and partial translucence. Like all ceramics, porcelain is sculpted from clay and then fire hardened. However, what sets porcelain apart and gives it its unique appearance is that it is made from clays heavy in kaolinite, a smooth, fine-grain mineral also used in toothpaste and the production of paper. This clay is then fired at very high temperatures, causing the clay to partially form into glass. The glass formation is assisted by the high levels of silicate in kaolinite clays, since silicate is the mineral used to create standard glass. Unglazed porcelain has a matte texture, while the more commonly used glazed porcelain is shiny.
- Porcelain production began in China and, until the 17th century, was solely exported by that country. For this reason, the ceramic was commonly referred to as "china" in English-speaking countries and sometimes still is. Exported Chinese porcelain became so popular in both Europe and the Middle East that the people of both regions eventually learned to produce it themselves. The word "porcelain" comes from the Italian word for cowrie shells, given to the ceramics because of its resemblance to the shiny, hard, white surface of the shell.
- Porcelain is used in a wide variety of products from dishes and tiles to figurines to dental prosthetics to plumbing and electrical fixtures. As prized as it is for its beauty, porcelain lends itself well to more utilitarian uses because it is so resistant heat, electricity and moisture, in addition to being easy to form into just about any shape needed. Porcelain remains the material of choice for attractive and long-lasting tubs, sinks and toilets and can also be found in a number of complex lighting systems, such as the lamps for theatrical lighting.
- Porcelain sculpting has been the medium for a wide range of unique collectible items, ranging from the unique to the ancient. Many centuries-old pieces of Chinese pottery and figurines are prized museum collection pieces, while more recent European and American pieces can be found in connection with every era of history.
- Though porcelain is a hard enough to be durable to handle, it's nonetheless highly brittle and prone to shatter if dropped on or struck by something hard. Proper care of porcelain requires careful handling and keeping smaller pieces out of the reach of pets or small children. Porcelain can also be vulnerable to staining, in which case it can be cleaned with mildly acidic substances, baking soda or bleach, depending on the type of stain.
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