Tired of being confused by jargon like “original ore clay”, “chemical clay” and “semi-handmade” when shopping for a genuine Yixing teapot? This guide breaks down the 5 key principles for choosing an authentic Yixing teapot in plain language, helping you spot counterfeits at a glance and spend your money wisely.

1. Check the Clay: Original Ore is the Soul

Authentic Yixing teapots are crafted exclusively from purple clay ore mined in Huanglong Mountain and Qinglong Mountain of Dingshu Town. Fired original ore clay has a matte finish with subtle silvery specks—reflections from mica particles. Rub the surface quickly with your finger: an original ore teapot will dry instantly, leaving a slight warmth on your palm. In contrast, chemical clay teapots, which contain added sodium silicate, feel damp and sticky after rubbing, and their colors are unnaturally bright.

Must-do before purchase: Ask the seller for a “one ore, one code” traceability certificate. Scanning the QR code should show the ore mine coordinates and mining batch. If there’s no code, or the scan redirects to a personal webpage, walk away immediately.

Examine the Craftsmanship: “Three Points in One Line” is the Baseline

Remove the lid and place the teapot upside down on a flat surface: the spout, rim, and handle must align perfectly in a straight line, with a margin of error ≤ 1 mm. Rotate the lid a full circle: the resistance should be even, and the lid should stay in place without sliding off at any angle. Traditional full-handmade teapots have only one subtle clay seam on the inner bottom, while mold-made teapots have two symmetrical joint lines. Shine a phone flashlight inside the spout: full-handmade teapots have slightly uneven wall thickness with faint fingerprint marks; mold-made teapots have uniform walls with mechanical polishing traces.

Listen to the Sound: A Porcelain-like Ring Means It’s Fake

Press your thumb on the lid and tap the teapot body gently with your index finger. An original ore teapot emits a clear, resonant chime with a metallic aftertone that lasts over 2 seconds. On the other hand, chemical or ordinary clay teapots produce a short, dull thud—similar to tapping a brick. Note: Zhuni (red clay) teapots have a higher density, so their sound is naturally crisper. Always combine this test with other indicators for judgment.

Test the Breathability: Water Drops Should Not Cling to the Surface

Fill the teapot with water, dry the exterior, then pour boiling water over the body. On an original ore teapot, the water film evaporates completely within 3 seconds, leaving only uniform faint spots. On a chemical clay teapot, the water film lingers for a long time—even forming an iridescent oily layer. For a more thorough test, try the “upside-down method”: fill the teapot, seal the lid tightly, block the spout with your finger, then invert the teapot. Thanks to its micro-porous structure, an original ore teapot will release water in a slow, thin stream—not a gush.

Verify the Origin: Both Certificate and Artisan MatterStarting in 2025, the Yixing Ceramic Association has implemented a “Purple Clay Digital ID” system. Scanning the QR code on the teapot bottom provides access to the artisan’s professional title, clay material test report, firing temperature, and other key data.

1. If a seller only provides a paper “master certificate” but the artisan’s title cannot be verified on the official website of Yixing Human Resources and Social Security Bureau, the certificate is almost certainly forged. For a budget of $40–$110 (¥300–¥800), prioritize works by Assistant Craftsmen or Ceramic Artists. Their teapots use genuine clay and feature solid craftsmanship—offering better appreciation potential than “Senior Master” pieces made by subcontractors.

ConclusionAn authentic Yixing teapot requires triple certification: quality clay, exquisite craftsmanship, and a verified artisan.Remember the 10-word mantra: Check Clay → Inspect Shape → Listen to Sound → Test Water → Verify Certificate. Avoid “fire-sale” deals on live streams, and choose stores that offer 7-day hassle-free returns and support third-party re-inspection. With these tips, you can easily bring home a genuine Yixing purple clay teapot—and brew tea that gets richer and more aromatic with time.