Merélite FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

🏺 About the Product

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Whatis a Jian Zhan, and why is it special?

Jian Zhan is a form of traditional Chinese
ceramic ware known for its high-temperature firing and unpredictable glaze
effects. Each cup is a fusion of clay, flame, and chance—where art and nature
meet in silence.

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Areall Merélite pieces handmade ?

Yes. Each one is hand-thrown, hand-glazed,
and fired above 1300°C. No molds. No machines. Only the elemental rhythm of the
kiln.

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Arethey truly one-of-a-kind ?

Always. No two cups ever share the same
glaze pattern. Every piece is shaped by variables beyond human control—making
each one singular and unrepeatable.

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Are Merélite cups food-safe ?

Absolutely. We use natural clays and
lead-free mineral glazes. Our cups are suitable for tea, sake, spirits, or
quiet display.

✨ Understanding Our Series

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Whatare the five Merélite product series ?

  • Essence Series: Small and refined — your first step into the world of Jian Zhan.
  • Element Series Larger, balanced forms for everyday use.
  • Plume Series : Inspired by feathered glazes and natural beauty.
  • Masterpiece Series : Limited-edition works by master artisans.
  • Singularity Series : One-of-a-kind treasures—never to be repeated.
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Will my piece look exactly like the photos ?

No—and that’s the beauty. Our photos
represent the style and form, but the final glaze will always vary. Your cup
will be uniquely yours.

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 Can I choose a specific cup ?

For Masterpiece and Singularity Series,
yes—on request we can provide preview photos before shipping. For other series,
cups are selected by style and remain true to the listed design family.

🎁 Care, Use & Gifting

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Can I use it every day ?

Yes. Jian Zhan cups are made to be used.
Many customers enjoy them daily for tea, sake, or spirits. We recommend hand - washing and gentle handling.

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How do I care for my cup ?

Rise with warm water only. No soap. Avoid dishwashers or rapid temperature shifts. Dry gently with a soft cloth and store in a safe, admired place.

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Willthe glaze change with use ?

Some may—especially with tea. A gentle darkening or deepening of color is natural and often enhances the piece' scharacter. It's part of the story the cup tells over time.

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Is this a good item to collect ?

Absolutely. Especially our limited or one-of-a-kind series. Jian Zhan are prized by collectors, tea masters, and aesthetes worldwide. Their rarity, process, and visual presence make them timeless works of art.

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What if something is wrong with my order ?

We’re here to help. If anything is incorrect or arrives damaged, please contact us within 48 hours and we’ll make it right - always.

🌌 Glaze Evolution – Crackling & Tea Patina

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Will my Jian Zhan develop fine lines or cracks with use ?

Yes, and it's perfectly natural. Over time, your cup may show delicate surface lines known as crackling or KaiPian—a beautiful network of glaze tension lines formed by heat and use. These are not flaws but part of the ceramic's organic transformation.

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What is 'tea patina' or YangCai ?

Tea patina refers to the subtle deepening or shifting of glaze color as your Jian Zhan is used over time. With repeated tea sessions, the glaze may take on a softer shine, richer tone, or whispering flecks of gold. It’s a trace of time, tea, and touch.

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Does this change affect the cup's quality or safety ?

Not at all. Crackling and color evolution are aesthetic changes only. The cup remains safe to use and often becomes even more beautiful.

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Can I prevent crackling or tea patina ?

If you prefer your cup to remain unchanged, minimize exposure to heat and tea. Store in a cool, dry space. But we believe each cup becomes more itself through use.

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Will all Merélite cups change over time ?

Not all. Some glazes remain stable. Others evolve subtly. The outcome depends on glaze chemistry, tea type, water content, and frequency of use.