Back to basics: what is clay?

Have you ever found yourself captivated by the touch and feel of clay, mesmerized by its malleability and potential? Perhaps you recall the joy of squishing it between your fingers as a child, molding miniature creations with unabashed imagination. Clay, an ancient and versatile material, has played a fundamental role in our lives for thousands of years. From childhood creations to pottery and sculpture, its enchanting nature has inspired countless artists and brought joy to both young and old alike. But, what is clay? Clay is a natural material composed of fine-grained minerals that are formed through the weathering and erosion of rocks over thousands of years.. Clay minerals have specific chemical compositions, and have a wide variety of particle sizes. In addition, clay particles are plate-like in structure. These features of clay material are what gives clay bodies their plasticity and malleability, making it the perfect material to sculpt and build with. Clay can be found naturally in the ground, or can be created by combining a mixture of individual minerals and materials with water. It is primarily made up of tiny particles of decomposed minerals, such as aluminum silicates. There are many different types of clay that can be found commercially including pottery clay, air-dry clay, polymer clay, porcelain, stoneware, terra cotta, and many more! The three most common clay minerals found in potter's clay are Kaolinite, Illite, and Montmorillonite (Bentonite). The color of clay can vary, ranging from light hues like beige and tan to darker shades such as red, brown, or gray, depending on the minerals present in the specific clay deposit.