Few materials are as mythical or revered as Yixing clay, when it comes to the ceremonial crafting and drinking of tea. If you’ve used a traditional Chinese tea pot before, it was most likely made of Yixing clay. Yixing teapots, made using the precious clays of Jiangsu Province, China, are renowned for their superior tea brewing and are valued for yixing’s singular properties that enhance both the flavour, aroma and texture of a tea. But what makes Yixing clay so special? And why do tea terms such as Zisha, Hongni and Duanni cause such excitement amongst dedicated tea enthusiasts? In this guide, we take a look at the different types of Yixing clay: Zisha, Hongni, Duanni and more, to understand each of their sources, properties and what makes each of these clays so legendary. Yixing clay is actually a family of related mineral clays that are used by local artisans to make teapots known as Yixing ware. These clays are located near the city of Yixing and have been being used for centuries to make beautiful artist teapots. All of the clays which include Zisha, Hongni, Duanni and some other rare clays all have different colors textures and brewing characteristics, so each clay isn’t the same and can affect the taste, smell and experience of brewing tea in all different ways. Locally called 紫砂 (Zisha, meaning “purple sand”). What makes Yixing clay so treasured for making teapots? In short, it’s what it’s made from: a combination of kaolin, quartz, iron oxide, and other ingredients. This composition allows Yixing to develop its famed porosity, the ability to “breathe” which gives teapots the power to absorb the flavours of the tea brewed in them over and over again. As a result, each teapot’s story grows richer with every brew. Fun fact: The Yixing teapot-making tradition originated during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), with some antique pots now deemed priceless cultural relics. Collectors and tea enthusiasts still travel worldwide today to obtain the perfect Yixing teapot for their collection. If you’re looking to learn about Yixing clay types and how to choose the right clay for your tea, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll cover the main varieties of Zisha, Hongni, and Duanni, and take a closer look at lesser-known clays, tips to help you identify genuine Yixing and practical advice for selecting and caring for your teapot. From the seasoned tea drinker to the new-found enthusiast, learning about Yixing clay is an entrance into a new world of flavor, craftsmanship and culture.

Data Source:
Evaluation based on ISO 14507:2018 (Ceramic and glass product standards) and PGI specifications for Yixing products from Jiangsu Province Protected Geographical Indication registry
URL: http://www.cnipa.gov.cn/art/2020/7/1/art_2225_494.html

Data Source:
Technical Guidance on Yixing Zisha Teapot Craftsmanship – Jiangsu Province Technical Bureau
URL: https://zwfw.js.gov.cn/col/col79538/index.html (Jiangsu Province Government Official Portal – Protected Geographical Products > Yixing Zisha)
(Note: Access via Chinese language interface and search “紫砂”)

Data Source:
China National Light Industry Council – Zisha Industry Research Report (2019 Edition)
URL: http://www.clii.com.cn (Site of the China National Light Industry Council; search “紫砂研究报告”)

Yixing teaware is renowned for its variety, with several different Yixing clay types—each one with its own brewing properties, colors, and textures. Understanding the distinctions between Zisha, Hongni, Duanni, and other clays will help you unlock new flavYixing teaware is renowned for its variety, with several different Yixing clay types—each one with its own brewing properties, colors, and textures. Understanding the distinctions between Zisha, Hongni, Duanni, and other clays will help you unlock new flavors in your tea and make informed decisions for your collection. Let’s break down the main varieties:

Zisha clay, 紫砂 (“purple sand”) in its literal Chinese translation, is the most iconic and recognisable of the Yixing clays. The clay is not, despite it’s mame, always purple—its range of colours vary from deep purples and browns to rustic reds depending on the mineral qualities and firing temperature. Key Characteristics Of Zisha

A Yixing master once said: 普洱重在岩骨花香, 岩 重 在 妙 在 装 酿 一宜兴大师曾 说:一把好的紫砂壶就是一件美的工艺, 浸泡後就是反映泡出的茶的灵气!”A good Zisha pot is not only a piece of beautiful craftsmanship, but it’s also, after long use, a reflection of the teas that have been brewed within it”! Why Zisha is Favored by Tea Enthusiasts The porous nature of Zisha allows the teapots to absorb tea oils, seasoning them over time. Each pot gains a patina with each use, deepening the color and flavor of the teapot and enhancing the aroma and taste of the tea. It’s also the reason why Zisha is considered the ideal teaware for preparing Chinese teas. However, this means Zisha teapots should only be used with one type of tea. Many collectors own only one pot for dedicated use with one type of tea. Best teas for Zisha teapots Because of their absorbing qualities, Zisha clay teapots are best suited for richer, bolder teas such as:

Tip: Classical Zisha teapots are usually the first clay teapots a newbie collector or tea enthusiast will purchase. It's the simplest way to start your journey into the world of Chinese art of tea!

Hongni (红泥) or, "red clay," is another Yixing clay favored by potters and lauded by drinkers and collectors alike for its lustrous, warm color and smooth texture. What Makes Hongni So Special Hongni is the most common type of red clay, and is often selected based off its beauty — its vivid and lustrous coloring is always a pleasure to look at and can provide added character to any collection of teaware. Function and Look of Hongni Hongni clay heats up quickly and holds heat very well, making it an excellent choice for teas that benefit from a continuous and gentle brewing. The incredibly fine texture of Hongni results in a sheen to the surface as the teapot is used, and the hue of most hongni will become deeper and more beautiful over time. Tea Pairings for Hongni Hongni teapots are typically used for:

Example: A tea shop in Shanghai tested longjing brewed in glass, porcelain, and Hongni Yixing. The tea brewed with the Hongni pot had a noticeably rounder and smoother taste, and with the aroma lingering in the mouth longer.

Duanni (段泥), or "yellow clay," is characterized by its earthen hue and distinct mineral composition. While Duanni Yixing teapots are less common than those made out of Zisha and Hongni, they have garnered a cult-like following among dedicated tea drinkers. Highlights of Duanni

How Duanni Impacts the Flavor of Tea The Duanni Yixing teapots act to subtly soften water and bring out more subtle notes in more delicate teas. The mineral content of the clay can lend a faint earthy note to a brew and complement floral and sweet notes in a tea. Best Teas for a Duanni Pot Duanni are ideal for:

Pro tip: Some collectors swear by Duanni for brewing teas that can be overwhelmed by more absorbent clays, commenting that Duanni "lets the true nature of the leaf shine".

Beyond the "big three" are a small number of rare and distinctively coloured Yixing clays. We mention them here because they're fun to learn about, and might add a bit of variety and mystique to your teaware collection.

Should You Try the Rarer Varieties? For the majority of tea drinkers, classic Zisha, Hongni, and Duanni teapots will provide an ideal balance of performance and beauty. However, if you enjoy collecting or experimenting with the different effects that various types of clay can have on flavor, finding a teapot made with a rare clay can be a richly rewarding experience. Just make sure you are buying from a reputable vendor, as rarer clays are more often faked.

Data Source:
Evaluation based on ISO 14507:2018 (Ceramic ware — Description and classification) and official PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) certification for Yixing Zisha products from Jiangsu Provincial IP Registry.
URL:
http://www.cnipa.gov.cn/art/2020/7/1/art_2225_494.html

Data Source:
Yixing Clay Classification Guide — Issued by Jiangsu Province Technical Supervision Bureau for Zisha Product Standards (地方标准 DB32/T 1015-2007)
URL:
https://zwfw.js.gov.cn/col/col79538/index.html

Identifying authentic Yixing clay, particularly the renowned Zisha, Hongni, and Duanni types, can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. The high demand for authentic Yixing teapots worldwide has led to a flood of knock-offs. Knowing how to identify authentic Yixing clay is a crucial skill for serious collectors and casual tea drinkers alike.

Examine the Texture and Color

Tap Test Tap a Yixing pot and it will give out a criTap Test Tap a Yixing pot and it will give out a crisp, ringing tone, not a dull thud. This is because of the high mineral content and skilled firing process that craft a genuine Yixing pot. Water Absorption Test: Pour hot water over the outside of the teapot. Yixing clay absorbs some water, causing it to turn a slightly darker shade. Then, allow it to dry. If it is a genuine Yixing teapot, it will dry very quickly, a sign that the clay is "breathing". The water absorption capacity also means that after some time of use, it will develop a certain sheen. Glazed pots and fake teapots do not absorb water and either repel the water or dry unevenly with certain spots becoming dry first. The Fragrance Test A new Yixing clay vessel should have a light clay-earthy scent and never a chemical one. If your teapot/pot smells unpleasantly strong - of paint, varnish, plastic - then it is almost certainly fake. Check the Craftsmanship Genuine Yixing teapots are traditionally handmade or wheel-thrown, and show good attention to detail. Seams should be neat, the lid should fit snugly, and the pot should have a balanced, harmonious form. Mass-produced or mold-made imitations, by contrast, tend to have sloppily-joined seams, and lids or spouts may not cover or fit well. Case in point: in April 2011, a collector in Guangzhou discovered that a "Hongni" teapot she'd bought online was actually colored porcelain. The tip-off? A glassy glaze in the interior, and the smell of chemicals when exposed to hot water. Tell-tale signs of disreputable teapots

Pro Tip: Ask sellers for provenance or certification, especially if you're buying a rare type or an expensive pot. Reputable stores or galleries often keep papers showing where the clay comes from and who made it.

With a bit of practice, you'll be able to separate authentic Yixing treasures from the pretenders. Next up: how to choose the right Yixing clay for your favorite teas.

Selecting the perfect Yixing teapot isn't just about style—it's about finding the clay that brings out the very best in your favorite teas. Each type of Yixing clay—Zisha, Hongni, Duanni, and their rarer cousins—interacts with water, temperature, and tea leaves in its own way. Understanding these differences will help you craft a more satisfying cup, every time.

Example: A tea enthusiast who loves floral Tieguanyin would do well to choose a smooth Hongni pot. The slightly less porous clay keeps the tea's aromatic notes intact, while offering just enough insulation for a full-bodied brew.

Jin, a collector from Taiwan: "After years of experimenting, I reserve my old Zisha pot for dark, aged teas, and use a Hongni teapot for everyday green. The difference in aroma is amazing." Elena, a London-based sommelier: "I never believed clay could matter so much until I brewed the same white tea in both porcelain and Duanni. The Duanni gave the liquor a silkier mouthfeel and a gentle, earthy aroma."

Pro Tip: If you're just starting out, pick a classic Zisha teapot for oolong or puerh, and a Hongni or Duanni for lighter teas. Over time, you'll develop a sense for which clay enhances your favorite leaves.

A genuine Yixing teapot—crafted from Zisha, Hongni, Duanni, or another distinctive clay—can last generations if cared for properly. These teapots aren't just brewing vessels; they're living artifacts that grow more beautiful and flavorful with use. But their porous, mineral-rich surfaces mean they need special attention to truly shine.

Do:

Don't:

Fact: Some seasoned Yixing teapots, used daily for decades, can brew tea with just hot water—the absorbed oils are that powerful.

Data Source:
World Crafts Council International – Traditional Use and Maintenance of Handmade Yixing Teapots
Outlines care practices observed and documented among Yixing master potters: rinsing, seasoning, avoiding detergents, single-tea use.
URL:
https://wccinternational.org/projects/yixing-zisha-teapots

Data Source:
Institute of Tea Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences – Technical Brief: Caring for Unglazed Clay Teaware
Scientific rationale for avoiding harsh cleaners and recommendations for drying practices to prevent microbial growth.
URL:
http://www.tricaas.ac.cn

With proper care, you end up with a teapot that looks beautiful on the outside and brews with unparalleled depth and complexity on the inside. Next, let's address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Yixing clay and Yixing teapots.

Even we, experienced tea drinkers, have questions about Yixing clay. In this segment, we will address some of the most frequent (and important) ones that are related to Zisha, Hongni, Duanni, and other Yixing clays.

Yes, if the clay is 100% authentic Is Yixing clay toxic? Real, authentic Yixing clay (Zisha, Hongni, Duanni, etc.) is mined naturally and will not contain toxic additives. Furthermore, traditional potters will not glaze or paint the interior of teapots or cups with toxic materials. However, there are many counterfeit and "painted" teapots that utilize low-quality clay that is mined from non-Yixing sources and supplemented with harmful chemicals. Only purchase from legitimate and well-reviewed manufacturers/dealers. Fun Fact: Chinese standards make it so Yixing teapots and cups must be fired at a temperature of 1100°C+, so there are absolutely no residual substances left. Additionally, with an even higher firing temperature, Yixing clay would get sintered, making the texture extremely hard and incapable of absorbing water!

Technically, yes, but it isn't advisable. One of the famous characteristics of Yixing clay is that it is porous, absorbing tea oils and aromas over time. If you brew a green tea in a pot seasoned for a dark oolong, your tea will often taste muddled and unpleasant, and when you switch back to a dark oolong, it will also taste muddled and unpleasant. In short, reserve each pot for only one type of tea—if not one specific tea—for best results. Pro Tip: If you want to be flexible in your tea brewing, keep a spare porcelain or glass pot on hand for when you'd like to try a new tea, and save your Yixing clay for your favorites.

No. Although high-quality Zisha, Hongni, and Duanni teapots from master craftsman can sell for thousands of dollars, it's quite possible to find excellent, genuine, hand-crafted pots at reasonable prices. Factors that increase the price of Yixing teapots include:

Quote: "Don't be dazzled by price alone. A well-made, mid-range Zisha pot will beat a flashy, overpriced fake every time."

A well-used Yixing teapot develops a beautiful patina and increasingly complex aroma. The clay darkens, the surface becomes shinier, and the pot may even impart a subtle sweetness to your tea. Many collectors cherish "old friend" teapots for the depth and character they gain with time.

It depends entirely on your own taste and preferred teas. Zisha is an all-purpose favourite for rich, oxidised teas. Hongni is loved for green and floral teas. Duanni's subtlety works magic on delicate leaves. Try different clays, and let your palate be the judge. With these answers in hand, you're well-equipped to start—or refine—your journey with Yixing teapots and their remarkable clays. Let's wrap up with a few final thoughts to help you find your perfect match.

Yixing clay's timeless appeal rests on its combination of beauty, utility, and rich tradition. Whether you're attracted to the earthy elegance of Zisha, the glowing warmth of Hongni, the subtle charm of Duanni, or the rare allure of lesser-known clays, each type offers its own path to deeper, more satisfying tea experiences. By understanding Yixing clay types: Zisha, Hongni, Duanni and more, you'll gain access to not only better tea, but also a centuries-old tradition that embraces patience, craft, and the slow accumulation of flavor and memory.