Ceramics as an Investment: Collecting and Value

The artistic merit of a ceramic piece, including its design, craftsmanship, and overall aesthetic appeal, is the primary factor that determines its value.

Porcelain is generally considered to be the most valuable type of ceramic due to its fine texture, translucency, and durability.

Patina refers to the natural aging process that occurs over time, resulting in a distinctive surface appearance and character.

Acrylic is not a common type of ceramic glaze. Celadon, Raku, and Majolica are all traditional ceramic glaze techniques.

Porcelain is a type of ceramic that is fired at a high temperature, resulting in a hard, non-porous material.

Microwave kilns are not commonly used for ceramic firing. Electric kilns, gas kilns, and wood-fired kilns are more traditional and widely used.

Earthenware is a type of ceramic that is fired at a low temperature, resulting in a porous material.

Polymer clay is not a natural ceramic clay. Kaolin, ball clay, and bentonite are all commonly used ceramic clays.

Throwing is the process of shaping a ceramic piece on a potter's wheel using hands and tools.

Decoupage is not a common ceramic decoration technique. Painting, glazing, and incising are more traditional and widely used.

Glazing is the process of applying a thin layer of glass or glaze material to the surface of a ceramic piece before firing.

Vacuum is not a common ceramic firing atmosphere. Oxidizing, reducing, and neutral are more traditional and widely used.

Trimming is the process of removing excess clay from a ceramic piece after it has been thrown or shaped, using a trimming tool.

Solar kilns are not commonly used for ceramic firing. Electric kilns, gas kilns, and wood-fired kilns are more traditional and widely used.

Bisque is a term used to describe a ceramic piece that has been fired once at a low temperature, typically before glazing and a final firing.