Ceramics and porcelain

Ceramics, from modeled and fired clay, and porcelain, finer and whiter, make it possible to create light jewelry with organic shapes, textures and unique glazes. Each piece is hand-modeled, fired and glazed, so no two are alike.

Properties #

• Materials: stoneware, earthenware and porcelain clay; polymer clay cures in a home oven.
• Firing: between about 900 and 1300 °C, depending on the clay.
• Finish: glossy, matte or crackle glaze, or unglazed (bisque)
• Weight: light, though porcelain is denser.
• Brittleness: it breaks with hard knocks.

Uses in jewelry #

• Hand-modeled earrings and pendants.
• Ceramic beads for necklaces and bracelets.
• Designer brooches and rings.
• Combinations with metal, cord and resin.

Pros and cons #

Advantages #

• Very light, with unique finishes.
• Vivid, stable colors.
• Perfect for organic shapes.

Limitations #

• It is fragile.
• The glaze can chip with a knock.
• It needs a ceramic kiln for firing.

Care and cleaning #

• Avoid knocks and drops.
• Clean with a soft cloth and lukewarm water.
• Store it so it does not rub against hard pieces.

See also #

• Enamel
• Glass and crystal
• Plastics, acetate and silicone