Photgraphed By: Christopher Gilner cjustingphoto@gmail.com

Interior Location and Staging by Lorraine Levinson Interior Design Lorrainelevinsoninteriordesign.com

The Jupiter Collection

Inspired by the natural beauty of Jupiter, and driven by a need to experiment and develop her own unique style, Nicole Jurain has created a stunning collection of pottery that is both functional and decorative. With an eye for design and the skill to bring her ideas to fruition, each piece Nicole creates captures her vision and showcases her attention to detail. She has blended the simplicity of using the natural colors of the clay as her palette with the complexity of using a combination of four varieties of stoneware in most of her work.  Nicole’s innovativeness has changed the way people think about pottery.  Her vases, bowls and mugs may be delicate in appearance but are intended for every day use. Her customers treasure each and every piece, whether they own one or two or have become collectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes, all of my ceramic products are handcrafted. Each item is uniquely made by me, Nicole Jurain, which means no two pieces are exactly alike, giving you a one-of-a-kind product every time.

  • Yes, most of my functional items, such as bowls, tumblers, and mugs, are food-safe and designed for everyday use.

    LEAD FREE GLAZE: All glaze used on Nicole Jurain Pottery ceramic items is Lead Free tested by California and passed the Proposition 65 regulations which requires all products that may expose consumers to lead come with a warning label.

  • Yes, I use lead-free glazes and non-toxic materials in all of my products. My ceramics are made with safety in mind, so you can use them with confidence.

    LEAD FREE GLAZE: All glaze used on Nicole Jurain Pottery ceramic items is Lead Free tested by California and passed the Proposition 65 regulations which requires all products that may expose consumers to lead come with a warning label.

  • Yes, I do offer custom ceramic pieces! If you’re looking for a personalized product, such as a custom vase, bowl, or even a special design, please get in touch with me. I would be happy to discuss your ideas and create something unique just for you.

    Contact me here

  • For in stock items, shipping is typically 5 - 7 business days. Once your order has shipped you will receive an email with package tracking information.

    Custom made pieces: Since all of my ceramics are handmade, processing time may vary. As these pieces go through product design and production process (typically 2 - 4 months) in addition to shipping (5 - 7 days once item has passed quality control inspection and packaged for shipment).

  • Please see return policy here

  • No I do not currently offer international shipping!

    If you have an item for international shipment please contact me directly for costs.

  • All my pieces are designed and created utilizing up to 5 different stoneware clay bodies. I utilize clear glaze to create durable, functional, and beautiful pieces. My ceramics are designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, ensuring that they will serve you for many years to come.

  • I typically measure my products 2 ways; actal size of product (in inches) as well as a “volume” measurement.

    Each grouping of work is handmade and therefore will have slight variations in size and shape. There may be ¼” variation from pictured to purchased product (not variances in each product description).

    for Volume measurement: Mugs, Tumblers and Espresso cups are measured by ounces. Measurements are determined by filling the piece to within ¼ inch from the top. For example a tumbler that states “holds 8oz” means the piece will hold 8oz with appoximately 1/4” allowance at the top.

  • The process of creating each of my handcrafted ceramic pieces is a labor of love, honed over decades of experience. With over 40 years of expertise in the craft, I’ve developed a deep mastery of the potter’s wheel and the specialized tools used in the ceramic process. My experience with the specific stoneware clay bodies I work with allows me to bring out their best qualities, ensuring every piece is both functional and beautifully unique.

    In addition to my extensive knowledge of traditional techniques, I’ve developed an exclusive, unique method that is distinct to my studio. This technique, perfected over nearly 2 decades, allows me to enhance the natural textures of the clay bodies; create forms, and carving/finishes that are difficult, if not impossible, for other potters to replicate.

    Here’s a general breakdown of the steps involved in creating one of my pieces:

    Shaping: First, the clay is hand-formed or thrown on the potter’s wheel. Thanks to my four decades of experience, I can shape even the most intricate forms with precision and care. This step can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the size and complexity of the piece.

    Each piece is signed and dated prior to first firing.

    Drying: Once shaped, the piece needs to dry slowly and evenly to avoid cracking or warping. This process typically takes several days to up to 2 weeks.

    Firing: After drying, the piece undergoes a bisque firing, a process that can take 24 hours, including a cooling period so the piece can be handled. This hardens the clay and prepares it for glazing. (NOTE: My pieces are bisque fired to 1875 degrees fahrenheit).

    Quality Control #1: After initial firing each piece is examined and inspected for defects, cracks or blemishes.

    Glazing: The next step is glazing. This process can take several hours, as each piece is glazed by hand, often requiring multiple layers and careful application.

    Final Firing: After glazing, the piece undergoes a final firing, which lasts around 24 hours, including cooling time. This final step ensures the glaze fully matures and the piece is durable and ready for use. (NOTE: I glaze fire to 2200 degrees fahrenheit)

    Quality Control #2: After the glaze firing, each piece is examined and inspected for defects, cracks or blemishes, and tested for leaks.

    Pieces with Gilding: Gold Luster is carefully applied to the piece and an additional firing is performed.

    On average, it takes about 4 to 6 weeks to complete a single handcrafted item, depending on the size, design complexity, and the time needed for each drying and firing cycle. Custom orders or larger pieces may require additional time. I’ll always provide an estimated completion date for special or custom orders.

    Each piece reflects decades of craftsmanship and dedication to the art of ceramics. I take great pride in producing work that is both beautiful and lasting, with every piece showcasing my personal touch and unique techniques.

  • I’m pretty rough on my own pottery, but if you want yours to stay as close to brand-new as possible, follow these care tips in addition to avoiding thermal shock by following these tips:

    To Prevent Thermal Shock: Avoid Placing hot items directly onto cold surfaces; never add cold water to the piece while it’s still hot (eg, directly from the oven or dishwasher).

    Dishwasher Care

    Detergent: Avoid abrasive dish detergents as they can wear away the glaze over time. While I’ve noticed minimal damage on my decade-old daily-use pieces, harsher detergents might cause more noticeable etching.

    Loading Tips: Never lean plates, cups, or bowls against each other or other items in the dishwasher. This can lead to vibration during the wash cycle, which might cause micro-cracks visible when the piece holds liquid.

    Handwashing

    Use a soft cloth or brush for handwashing. Avoid abrasive metal sponges like steel wool or powdered cleansers, as they can scratch the clear glaze over time.

    Microwave Use

    I often use my pottery in the microwave without issues, even though most potters advise against it. My dark clay contains a high concentration of iron (enough for a magnet to stick!), but I’ve never had a problem. Still, proceed with caution if you’re unsure.

    Gilded pieces should never be put in the microvave or dishwasher

    Hot Mug Handles

    Over time, any mug—whether handmade or store-bought—can develop a super-heated handle. This usually happens due to invisible hairline cracks that allow water to seep behind the glaze. When microwaved, the water turns to steam, creating a dangerously hot handle.

    To stay safe:

    Always check handles carefully when removing a mug from the microwave.

    Remember, this phenomenon can happen with any mug, even your trusty vacation souvenir!

  • Limited Edition Series: are works that I will not be recreating.

    One-of-a-Kind: Each Piece created is ONE OF A KIND there is NO way to recreate the clay combination pattern. I can create a form over and over again but it will never ever look identical to one another in patterning.

    Always In Stock: These are typically tumblers, bowls, bud vases, mugs and other items not sold when I attend in person art shows. Always in stock items are also available as custom orders with a minimum quantity of 6.

  • Yes, we offer gift wrapping for a small additional fee! You can also include a personalized message with your order. Gift cards are available in various denominations for your convenience; they are available for purchase here.