Porcelain was initially made by the
Chinese people to withstand the high heat that was generated by their kilns. Which is why most porcelain
dishes are called China. The early Chinese porcelain was made from:
Kaolin - Which is most commonly
known as china clay, a pure, natural white clay that will melt only at very high tempuratures.
Petuntse - A feldspar mineral
that, when melted, forms a glasslike cement that permanently binds.
Today, most of the European porcelain is made from a softer (albiet
durable) paste that is usually a combination of clay and - most often - ground glass.
The beautiful items that are featured below are Russian porcelain
collectible works of art. The amazing beauty of each elegant piece is best appreciated when you click
the picture to get the larger view.