History of Kaolin clay

Kaolin, also known as china clay, has a fascinating history.

Origin: The name “kaolin” comes from the Chinese term 高嶺土 (gāolǐngtǔ), which means “high ridge.” It was first mined in a village called Gaoling near Jingdezhen in southeastern China’s Jiangxi Province. Jesuit missionaries obtained pure clay samples from this area around 1700 AD.

European Introduction: Samples of kaolin were sent to Europe by a French Jesuit missionary in the early 18th century. These samples showcased the material used by the Chinese in porcelain production.

Versatility: Kaolin is an essential ingredient in the manufacture of china and porcelain. It’s also widely used in papermaking, rubber, paint, and various other products.

Color Variations: In many parts of the world, kaolin is colored pink-orange-red due to iron oxide impurities. Lower iron concentrations yield white, yellow, or light orange hues.

Global Production: In 2021, global kaolin production was estimated at 45 million tonnes, with a total market value of A$6.2 billion.

So, from ancient Chinese pottery to modern industrial applications, and in our case, skincare, kaolin continues to play a significant role!