Porcelain

Porcelain is a ceramic material that is made by combining a white clay called kaolin with petuntse, a form of hard crystalline mineral. It was the Chinese who first discovered the secrets to its production and hence, "china" became a synonym for porcelain and porcelain wares. This material was first made by them during the Tang dynasty (618-907).

An extremely hard substance, porcelain, has many practical applications in all walks of life including science and electronics as well as domestic uses. It is known as the best material available for making fine vases, figurines and other decorations. Although similar in look to its ceramic counterparts, porcelain is stronger and denser, which make it highly resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture damage. All these properties makes it a long-lasting material that is ideal for several practical purposes.

Besides statues, figurines, and vases, porcelain is used as tile flooring and other art objects. The porcelain wares and art objects are considered a sought-after collector’s item. Collectors’ regard many porcelain vases and bowls made during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing Dynasties (1644-1912) as the best porcelain every made. Some of the popular antique porcelain items include Franz porcelain, Noritake Antique Porcelain, porcelain Antique dolls, etc. Several online antique sites feature a wide range of porcelain items that are sold at premium prices.