Types of Glazes For Ceramic Tableware

In the production process of ceramic tableware, the glaze not only plays a role in giving the tableware color and luster but also protects the surface of the tableware, making them more durable. Different ceramic glaze processes and materials can help ceramic tableware present different textures and styles. In this article, Jinhua Ceramics will show you the types of glazes you can find on ceramic tableware and the role they play in beauty and safety, and explore which glazes are the best choices on ceramic tableware.

What is ceramic glaze?

Ceramic glaze is a glassy coating, usually composed of silicates, metal oxides and other mineral materials. After a layer of glaze is applied to the surface of a ceramic product, it is fired at high temperature, and the glaze melts and combines with the ceramic body to form a smooth, hard protective layer.

This layer of glaze can not only add gloss and color to the ceramic, but also improve the durability and water resistance of the ceramic, preventing penetration and scratches. The glaze is not only practical, but also can increase the artistic value of ceramic tableware through different colors, textures and pattern designs.

Glaze types of ceramic tableware

The glaze types of ceramic tableware are rich and varied. Different glazes not only bring visual differences, but also affect the use experience and durability of tableware. According to the coating method of the glaze and the degree of integration with the ceramic body, the glaze is mainly divided into three categories: overglaze, in-glaze and underglaze.

Overglaze decoration

This process is to draw the pattern after the ceramic surface has been glazed and fired, and then fire it again at a lower temperature. Overglaze can present bright colors and complex pattern designs, but because the pattern is on the glaze, it is easy to wear.

In-glaze decoration

The pattern of in-glaze is drawn after glazing and before firing, and the pattern is integrated into the glaze layer during firing. Compared with overglaze, the pattern of in-glaze is not easy to wear and has a certain protective effect, and the color performance is also softer.

Underglaze decoration

Underglaze is to draw the pattern on the body, and then cover it with a layer of transparent glaze for high-temperature firing. Because the pattern is under the glaze, this process makes the pattern more durable and less likely to fade or scratch, and is often used for high-quality ceramic tableware that is expected to be used for a long time.

These different glaze types allow ceramic tableware to be diversified in design, color expression and functionality to meet the different needs of consumers.

Which type of glaze is best for making tableware?

When choosing a glaze suitable for tableware, we need to consider multiple factors, including safety, durability, aesthetics, and easy cleaning. The following is an analysis of the suitability of different glaze types in tableware applications:

Safety

Underglaze color: Because the pattern is under the glaze, the colorant is sealed in the glaze, and the food cannot directly contact the colorant, so it is the safest. Underglaze colored ceramic tableware meets food safety standards and is an ideal choice for making tableware.

In-glaze color: It also has high safety because the pigment has sunk into the glaze and is covered by the glaze layer, reducing direct contact with food.

Overglaze color: Although overglaze colored ceramic tableware may have more advantages in terms of aesthetics, it is relatively less safe because the pattern is on the glaze, which is easy to wear and may contain harmful substances such as heavy metals. Therefore, when choosing overglaze-colored tableware, you should ensure that the product comes from a regular manufacturer and meets relevant safety standards.

Durability

Underglaze color and in-glaze color: Because the pattern is covered by the glaze layer, it has better wear resistance and corrosion resistance, so it is more durable.

Overglaze: The wear resistance is relatively poor, and the pattern and glaze surface are easily worn out during long-term use or cleaning.

Aesthetics

Overglaze: Bright colors, rich and diverse patterns, with high artistry and ornamental value.

Underglaze and glaze-in-glaze: Although the aesthetics are slightly inferior to overglaze, the pattern of underglaze is more stable and restrained under the glaze, while glaze-in-glaze combines the advantages of overglaze and underglaze, with certain color and pattern expression and high safety.

Easy to clean

Underglaze and glaze-in-glaze: Because the glaze layer is smooth and the pattern is covered, it is not easy to hide dirt and is easy to clean.

Overglaze: Because the pattern is on the glaze and may be uneven, it may be relatively difficult to clean.

In summary, considering safety, durability, aesthetics and easy cleaning, underglaze ceramic tableware is more suitable for tableware. It not only ensures the safety and hygiene of food, but also has high durability and easy cleaning, and can meet people’s demand for aesthetics. Of course, when choosing underglaze colored tableware, you should also pay attention to choosing regular brands and products that meet relevant safety standards.

Underglaze tableware manufactured by Jinhua Ceramic

The ceramic tableware manufactured and wholesaled by Jinhua Ceramic uses high-quality underglaze color technology. This process ensures that the pattern is under the transparent glaze layer. After high-temperature firing, the pattern is not only stable in color, but also will not wear or fade due to daily use.

This production method not only gives the tableware a unique aesthetic, but also greatly improves the durability and safety of the tableware. The underglaze color process makes the ceramic tableware smooth and non-toxic, suitable for frequent use, ensuring that no harmful substances are released during cooking and dining, and is an ideal choice for modern families and high-end restaurants.

Jinhua Ceramics is committed to providing customers with high-quality wholesale ceramic tableware that combines beauty and practicality through underglaze color technology, ensuring that each product not only has a delicate appearance, but also withstands the test of daily use. Whether used in homes, restaurants or hotels, our ceramic tableware shows unique artistic charm and reliable performance.

We are well aware that the needs of each customer are different, so Jinhua Ceramics also provides buyers with flexible customization services. Whether it is a personalized pattern design, color matching, or unique size and shape requirements, we can tailor it according to your needs to ensure that each piece of ceramic tableware meets your expectations.

Welcome global buyers to contact us to purchase our high-quality ceramic tableware and experience the perfect combination of excellent service and exquisite craftsmanship.