keramík

Keramík is a term that broadly refers to objects made from clay that have been shaped and then hardened by firing at high temperatures. This process, known as firing, transforms the raw clay into a durable, often waterproof material. The word "keramík" itself originates from the Greek word "keramos," meaning potter's clay.

The history of keramík is extensive, with evidence of its use dating back to prehistoric times. Early humans discovered that by molding clay and exposing it to heat, they could create functional vessels for storing food and water, as well as for cooking. Over millennia, the techniques and artistry of keramík evolved significantly across different cultures and civilizations.

Keramík encompasses a wide range of products. These include pottery, such as earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain, each distinguished by the type of clay used, the firing temperature, and the resulting properties. Beyond tableware and decorative items, keramík is also used in construction for bricks, tiles, and sanitary ware. In more modern applications, advanced ceramics play crucial roles in technology, medicine, and industry due to their unique properties like heat resistance, electrical insulation, and hardness. The production of keramík involves several stages: preparing the clay, shaping it through methods like wheel throwing or molding, drying, and finally firing in a kiln. Glazes can be applied before or after firing to add color, texture, and impermeability.