Why Does It Happen?
Material Matters
Yixing teapots are crafted from zisha (purple clay), a special mineral-rich clay that is naturally absorbent. Each time you brew tea, small amounts of tea oil seep into the surface, leaving behind a faint trace.Handling Use
Frequent use and gentle wiping with a soft cloth or your hand also contribute to the surface shine. Over time, these traces build up to create a deep, lustrous finish unique to your brewing habits.Different Teas, Different Effects
The kind of tea you use will influence the color development. Darker teas like ripe pu-erh will leave a richer tone. Lighter teas may cause subtler changes. Either way, the process is natural, beautiful, and irreversible.
How to Enhance the Patina:
Use the teapot regularly.
Don’t scrub it with soap—just rinse and air dry.
Wipe gently with a soft cloth after each session.
Use it for only one category of tea.
This isn’t just a teapot. It’s a living, breathing part of your tea ritual.
? Learn more about Yixing care and browse handcrafted teapots at TeaTeapot.com