What is Ceramic Clay?

Clay naturally found in the ground may resemble dirt or mud, but is very different. It is a collection of minerals* and quartz. (It may also have other impurities and organic matter in it).

Ways to identify clay include being able to mold it into a shape when wet (its plasticity), and when it dries, it shrinks and cracks.

*The most common types of clay minerals include kaolinite, illite, and montmorillonite (bentonite).

Types of clay include kaolin (or China clay), stoneware, fireclay, ball clay, common clay (also known as earthenware, brick clay, or terracotta), and bentonite.

What is a clay body?

A clay body consists of different clays, flux, and silica. The types of clays combined, and the ratio of each of the 3 ingredients can result in clays for specific purposes. They may be better for wheel throwing, sculpture, extruding, etc.

What is a flux?

A flux helps the clay melt at a lower temperature and it makes the clay more dense, strengthening it.

A few different types of fluxes include feldspars, nepheline syenite, powdered glass/frit, and talc. Each have different characteristics and would be chosen for different reasons.

What is silica?

Silica is the glass forming agent added to a clay body. This allows the clay body to fuse together when fired. Silica also promotes vitrification, which makes a piece nearly waterproof.