Glazed clay results in the smooth, almost glass-like finish that we associate with pottery and ceramics. By glazing ceramics, we protect the finish of the pottery, while also creating a sterile layer surrounding the clay. Because of this, the porous nature of the base clay is covered, making it so no flavors seep into the pores. This is great for general use of tea ware, as it means that no matter how strong one tea might be, you can enjoy a subtle and delicate one the next time you use the tea ware.

Cups are almost always glazed, and most Gaiwans are as well. It is common to see traditional Chinese teapots that are glazed, although there is a large market for unglazed versions of these teapots.

Unglazed clay uses no additional top coating when firing the ceramics. This results in the porous nature of the clay still being in contact with the tea as it brews. This porous attribute allows tea to "season" a vessel, meaning it takes on a bit of the flavor of the tea. Because of this, many unglazed clay vessels are often designated to making a single type of tea. By doing this, it avoids the issue of cross contamination where a stronger and more harsh tea will affect a gentle and more delicate one.

Traditional Chinese teapots are often made from unglazed clay, as it is historically how they are made, and it is believed to compliment or even enhance the flavor of the tea brewed in it. In a similar manner, there are Gaiwans made from unglazed clay as well, although since there are limited resources of the clay which are best known for tea, often the more sought-after clays are crafted in the form of a teapot which demands a higher price.

One of the most sought-after types of clay for making teapots in China is Yixing Zisha, or purple sand clay from Yixing. It gets its name from the raw clay, which has a purple color, although once it gets manufactured and fired it develops an earthy brown tone. It originates from the Jiangsu province and has been used for making teaware for hundreds of years. Yixing has become so beloved that China has placed restrictions on how much can be mined, as to preserve this clay unique to its history. On top of the rarity, Yixing pottery is typically all hand made. Combined these add to the value of Yixing pottery to collectors.