## Overview The geological background behind the differences between East and West U.S. pottery ## Description ## Appalachian Mountains × Stoneware ### East Fork Pottery ### Geological Background - The Appalachian Mountains are among the **oldest mountain ranges in North America** - Geological layers shaped by **hundreds of millions of years of erosion** - Rich deposits of **iron-bearing natural clays** - A long-standing tradition of **local clay sourcing** is historically established ### Impact on the Vessels **Clay Body** - Warm, earthy tones derived from iron content - Softer, more organic surface expression after firing **Surface Character** - Visible particle texture remains - Individual variation is embraced and valued ## California Geography × Stoneware ### Heath Ceramics ### Geological Background - California has a **geologically young and unstable crust** - Characterized by frequent **faulting, volcanic activity, and uplift** - Abundant minerals derived from **granite systems (quartz and feldspar)** - Clay bodies tend to require **refinement and deliberate blending** ### Impact on the Vessels **Clay Body** - High ratios of quartz and feldspar - Fired results are **hard, dense, sharp, and structurally stable** **Surface Character** - Controlled, consistent finishes - Subtle variation exists, but within a tightly managed range