Frequently Asked Questions

Yixing teapots are where QIJIAN began, but they do not define our limits.
For now, we primarily present works of Yixing clay. Over time, we hope to bring together objects from other regions and countries, shaped by their materials, makers, and traditions.

We consider form, material, craftsmanship, details, condition, and suitability for everyday use. We also look at the maker or studio and whatever provenance information is available.
Place of origin, reputation, price, and trends are never the only criteria. We look for objects that express their materials and craftsmanship honestly and can become part of life for years to come.

Unless otherwise stated, pieces marked “Photographed individually” or “One-of-a-kind piece” are photographed as the specific items offered for sale. The images show the piece you will receive.
We aim to show its form, material, craft details, and natural variations rather than relying on sample photographs.

Handmade objects may show slight differences in form, texture, tool marks, color, or firing marks. These natural characteristics are part of each piece's individuality, and we aim to show them clearly in photographs and descriptions.
Shipping damage, structural issues that affect normal use, and material differences from the product description are not treated as natural variations. They are handled under our after-sales policy.

QIJIAN creates a separate record for each listed piece, linking photographs of the actual object, piece details, visible marks, available provenance documents, and a QIJIAN record number to the specific item offered for sale.
The purpose is to make the available information clear and let you see the exact piece before deciding.

Where information is available and can be checked, we record the piece's name, place of origin, materials, technique, dimensions, maker or studio, and accompanying documents.
Sources may include the object itself, the maker, studio, previous owner, or documents supplied with it. We do not fill gaps with assumptions or make claims beyond the evidence.

No.
A QIJIAN record is our documentation of a specific object and the information available to us. It helps present and check details, but does not replace independent authentication, grading, or valuation.
If a piece has a certificate from its maker, studio, an institution, or a third party, we identify the issuer separately.

The product page specifies exactly what is included.
A piece may come with QIJIAN record information, a certificate from the maker or studio, existing documents, accessories, and packaging. If an item is not listed on the product page, please do not assume it is included.

Yes. Once you receive the piece, contact QIJIAN with its record number to check the linked photographs and recorded information.
The number links to a record; it does not replace a certificate issued by a maker, studio, or independent third party.

On the product page, add the piece to your cart, review your order, and proceed to checkout. Enter your shipping details and complete payment.
Once payment is successful, we will send an order confirmation to the email address used at checkout.

No. Adding a one-of-a-kind piece to your cart does not reserve stock. The piece is reserved for an order only after payment has been completed.
If two customers choose the same piece, the first successfully paid order takes priority.

Available payment methods appear at checkout and may vary by country or region. Please refer to the options shown there.

The currency and final amount shown on the product and checkout pages determine the order total.
If your card issuer converts the currency, its exchange rate, foreign transaction fee, or other bank charges are set by that institution and may not appear in the QIJIAN order total.

Please contact us as soon as possible, before dispatch, if you need to change your shipping details or request cancellation. We will confirm what is possible based on the order's processing status.
Once the parcel has been handed to the carrier, we cannot guarantee that we can intercept it or change its address. Shipped orders are handled under our shipping and returns terms.

QIJIAN currently ships orders from mainland China. Before dispatch, we check the condition of each piece, the order details, and its accompanying documents, then pack it to protect the fragile object.
If a future piece ships from another country or region, we will state that on the product page or before checkout.

The countries and regions available for delivery are those you can select at checkout.
If your location is not listed, please contact us. We can check whether delivery is possible for the piece and destination.

After dispatch, delivery to most international destinations is estimated at about 5–8 business days. Timing may vary due to the destination, customs, holidays, weather, or local delivery arrangements.
The piece must also be checked and packed before dispatch. Please refer to the shipping notification for your order status.

Once your order ships, we will email tracking details to the address used at checkout.
If tracking does not update for an extended period, contact us and we will help investigate with the carrier.

Your destination may charge customs duties, import VAT, clearance fees, or other charges.
Unless checkout explicitly shows that these charges have already been collected, the recipient usually pays them to local customs or the carrier on import or delivery. The relevant authorities determine the amount and collection method.

Eligible pieces may be returned if you request a return within 14 days after the order is marked delivered.
The piece must remain unused, unwashed, unsoaked, and undamaged, with all accompanying documents, accessories, and gifts intact. Follow the return and packing instructions we provide. Please do not send anything back before receiving those instructions.

For a change of mind or another reason unrelated to a problem with the piece, the buyer normally pays for trackable return shipping and related costs.
If we confirm shipping damage, an incorrect item, a defect affecting normal use, or a material discrepancy from the product description, QIJIAN will cover reasonable return shipping costs.

Please contact us, ideally within 48 hours of delivery. Include your order number and clear photographs of the outer box, shipping label, inner packing, whole piece, and damaged area.
Keep the piece and all packaging until the case is resolved. Do not discard or repair them, as the carrier may need to inspect them.

Many QIJIAN pieces are stocked individually and each listing refers to a specific object, so an identical replacement may not be available.
If the issue qualifies for after-sales support, we will discuss a refund or another solution agreed by both parties.

After the returned piece arrives and is inspected, QIJIAN will initiate any eligible refund to the original payment method within the timeframe stated on the Shipping & Returns page.
The time it takes to reach your account then depends on your payment provider, card issuer, or bank.

First, inspect the teapot and packaging. If all is well, rinse it gently with clean water and warm it gradually with warm water; avoid sudden temperature changes.
Unless the product page or accompanying information says otherwise, there is no need for elaborate boiling treatments with tea leaves, tofu, or other scented materials.

Empty the tea leaves promptly, rinse gently with clean or warm water, and allow the inside and outside to air-dry completely.
Before storing it, make sure no tea or noticeable moisture remains inside. Avoid keeping it sealed in a damp space.

For routine care, avoid strongly scented detergents, soap, bleach, and other cleaning agents that may leave an odor.
We also do not recommend a dishwasher, stiff brushes, or abrasive tools. A gentle rinse with clean water followed by complete air-drying is usually enough.

Yes.
Some people use one teapot for the same or similar teas over time to suit their taste and routine, but this is a personal choice, not a rule. Use the teapot in the way that works for you.

Clean the teapot and let it dry completely, inside and out. Store it in a clean, ventilated place away from strong odors.
Do not seal the lid tightly while any moisture remains, and avoid prolonged exposure to cooking fumes, perfume, or other strong smells.