Clay: The Foundation of Our Ceramics
At Essencora, clay is the heart and soul of everything we create. We source our clay from the Appalachian region of the United States, known for its rich deposits and naturally smooth texture. This particular clay offers a balance of strength and workability, making it ideal for both delicate vases and sturdy planters.
We chose Appalachian clay because its mineral composition yields a warm, organic color palette and a tactile softness that stands up to daily use. Every batch is carefully tested for purity, allowing us to consistently create ceramics with a timeless, natural appeal.
Glazes: Custom Colors with Local Minerals
Our glazes begin with minerals and oxides sourced from small, family-run suppliers in the Northeast. We blend these with feldspar and locally harvested ash to develop unique colors and textures that complement our clay bodies. Each glaze is formulated in-house, letting us control the finish from glossy and vibrant to matte and subdued.
We selected these minerals because they are both sustainable and reliable, supporting neighboring communities and reducing our carbon footprint. The result is a collection of finishes that are food-safe, durable, and exclusive to Essencora.
Recycled Glass: Subtle Sparkle in Lighting
For our lighting collections, we incorporate recycled glass sourced from regional recycling initiatives. Once cleaned and melted, the glass is hand-worked into fixtures or used as an accent in ceramic lamp bases. This material brings a soft shimmer and visual interest to each piece, reflecting light and creating warmth in any space.
Using recycled glass not only diverts waste from landfills but also aligns with our commitment to environmental responsibility. We love its versatility and the way it elevates the handcrafted feeling of our lighting designs.
Bamboo: Renewable Accents
Some of our newest pieces feature accents made from bamboo, harvested from certified sustainable farms in the southern United States. Bamboo’s natural strength and rapid regrowth make it an eco-friendly choice. We use it for handles, lamp pulls, and display stands, lending a touch of warmth and contrast to our ceramics and glass.
Bamboo was selected for its resilience and tactile quality, as well as our desire to integrate renewable resources wherever possible. Its inclusion helps us create home and garden decor that’s both beautiful and mindful of tomorrow.