Some tof erms for Ceramic

jasonwu

I had handled some ceramic item before and gained some knowlege accordingly. shared as below, hope it can help.

Porcelain - Porcelain is a clay body; a combination of fine china clay, ballclay, feldspars and the like. When fired, it becomes very hard and strong and usually translucent. Porcelain is normally very white and has a very smooth surface. Porcelain clays lack iron impurities and are ground to very fine particle sizes, which contributes to their higher density. Porcelains can usually be used on the stove, in conventional and microwave ovens, and even under the broiler, provided there is ample liquid inside. They can also be used for storage in the refrigerator or freezer, are virtually non-stick, and are dishwasher safe.

Stoneware - Stonewares are high fired ceramics (usually containing fireclay, which adds to their strength) often made of clays that are not highly refined. They can be brown, buff or white, and commonly have some specks and some particulate material such as sand or fine grog. Stonewares are vitreous (usually non-porous) or semi-vitreous (porous), not translucent. They can be used in conventional and microwave ovens. Some stoneware can also be used over an open flame. Some are dishwasher safe, but we recommend washing by hand.

Earthenware - Earthenware is a clay fired at low temperatures where it does not become vitreous. Earthenwares are porous and therefore not as strong as stonewares and porcelains. Glazes are usually very bright colored and if the glazes are properly chosen, earthenware can be quite strong and functional. Earthenware glazes will never be as hard as a porcelain or stoneware glaze surface. Therefore an eathenware glazed pot or plate will scratch or chip more easily than the harder surface of porcelain or stoneware. Terracotta refers to a type of earthenware that contains red burning clay. Majolica is terracotta with an opaque white glaze, usually decorated with colored overglazes, and is stronger than terracotta. Earthenware is usually best for conventional and microwave oven use, though some can also be used on top of the stove. If glazed, it becomes non-porous and can also be used to cook liquids. Washing by hand is recommended.