Porcelain manufacturing 4Composition of the porcelain paste Kaolin (50%) : extremely white clay that gives the porcelain objects their pure-white appearance. Feldspar (25%) : an aluminium silicate of potassium or sodium that secures translucency. Quartz (25%) : a material which allows the hardness of the pieces.   4Modelling The modelling is the creative stage where new pieces of porcelain are imagined and forms are developed. Traditionally engraved by hand, plaster models are created 14% larger than the final size of the pieces taking into account the reduction of volume due to the high firing stage.   4Casting The casting-slip is a combination of the moulding clay and various liquids and chemicals to make it easier to mould. The paste in its liquid form is poured into a hallow plaster mould, which has a very porous quality, forming a layer of clay o­n the inner surface. The layer hardens while the water contained in the casting-slip is absorbed. The excess of casting-slip is ejected from the mould by turning it upside down when the desired thickness is obtained. After a period of time, the hardened clay is removed shortly from the plaster mould, the imperfections are eliminated by hand, and the piece is placed in a dryer.   4Bisque firing or “Dégourdi” In place in the dryer, the porcelain article is fired at a temperature of 1796° F (/ 980°C). This firing eliminates any residual water and the piece becomes porous.   4Enamelling Porcelain enamel and porcelain paste are composed of the same materials but at different percentages. Perfectly dehydrated, the product can be enamelled then is soaked into an enamelling bath by hand or by machine.   4Second Firing or “high firing” During the “high firing” (2252°F / 1400°C) the enamel and the porcelain paste vitrifies. The product acquires its translucency, hardness and pure-white appearance. It undergoes a reduction of volume and obtains its final size.   4Decoration Most of our products are hand-painted. Using an experience gathered over many years, expert hands apply glazed colours and sometimes precious metals to the porcelain. A certification of quality and authenticity is given to you by the “Hand-Painted” inscription appended o­n the back or inside the item.   4Final firing Colours and precious metals adhere to the enamelled porcelain thanks to the final firing which temperature depends o­n the kind of decoration applied and vary from 1292-1652°F (700-900°C) to 2252°F (1400°C).   4Finishing When pieces like porcelain boxes are produced, the final stage of the manufacturing is the setting o­ne. The crimper hammers the copper o­n the outline of the box. The bevelled edges are shaped in order to receive the future hinge. Then the hinge and clasp are soldered. Porcelain History - Guided Tour