Artisanal Ceramics | The Third Fire
The third firing
technique
Third firing decoration is one of the most refined techniques in the ceramic tradition of Deruta.
This process allows precious materials, such as pure gold, to be applied to the ceramic, giving each piece a unique brilliance and great artistic value.
It is a delicate phase of the production process that requires experience, precision and entirely manual craftsmanship.
Every decoration is applied by hand by our artisans in the Deruta workshop, following a tradition handed down for centuries. No two pieces are identical.
The three firings of ceramics
After being shaped and dried, the clay piece is fired for the first time. This firing transforms it into ceramic bisque, resistant and ready for decoration.
The glaze is applied, giving the ceramic its smooth, brilliant surface. The piece returns to the kiln for the second firing, during which the glaze fuses with the surface.
The third firing is the final and most delicate phase. Pure gold or platinum is applied at a lower temperature, allowing the precious metals to bond without losing their brilliance.
Pure gold applied by hand
In our process we use liquid pure gold, applied by hand to the ceramic surface by skilled artisans.
After decoration, the piece is fired again for the third firing, during which the precious metal bonds to the ceramic creating a luminous and refined effect.
This technique gives the piece an authentic metallic lustre, impossible to achieve with ordinary gold glazes.
Every piece is unique
Third firing decoration is carried out entirely by hand. For this reason each object shows small natural variations, which bear witness to the artisan work and make every piece one of a kind — a work of art to treasure.
Care of gold decorations
To preserve the brilliance over time- 🤲 Hand wash only
- 🚫 Avoid harsh detergents
- 🧽 Do not use abrasive sponges
- 🍽️ Do not put in dishwasher