What is purple clay ?
There is a special kind of rock which is mostly mineral deposits found under the ground near Yixing, Jiangsu province.The rocks after being mined are grounded by machine with water, then they are filtered to form a kind of paste, just like the bean paste, which is used to make teapots and cups.
Why we need a tea pet ?
A tea pet is used as a decoration on your tea tray while you are serving the tea. In the ceremony you "feed" the tea pet by pouring water. or discarded tea over it. After time the clay will take on a shiny luster.
As the glossiness increases through prolonged period of nourishment, its appearance changes and become even more attractive. The shine and smooth surface that results after prolonged use make most tea lovers yearn to keep a tea pet for their collection alongside their gongfu tea set.
