A gaiwan is the central part of Gong Fu Cha, used for infusing tea leaves. It consists of a bowl, lid, and saucer. A gaiwan is good for warming up tea, smelling the aroma, and observing the tea leaves unfurling.
The most popular among Yxing clays (ZiSha) from the delta of the Yangtze River, Zi Ni clay, has excellent porosity and heat-retaining properties that significantly improve tea taste compared to tea made in glass, porcelain, glazed teapots, or even other ZiSha. The clay is made of a mixture of kaolin, quartz, and mica, with a high iron oxide content. The texture is somewhat sandy.
Because of its good heat preservation qualities, this gaiwan is excellent for brewing teas that need higher water temperature, such as black (red) teas, pu-erh, and oolong.
Size: 3.5 x 3.9inch / 9 x 10cm
Capacity: 120ml
Material: Yixing clay (ZiSha) – Zi Ni (Qing Shui Ni)
NOTE: Gaiwan and other teaware (especially those made of clay) easily absorb taste and aromas and should never be washed using detergents.