From clay-eating parrots to Clare Twomey’s working ceramics factory at Tate Modern, these were September’s top stories from around the world on everything ceramics related:

Creating Ceramics Can Help Combat Depression
Researchers recently quantified the therapeutic effects of working with clay, finding that it can help improve mood, decision-making, and motivation. Learn more

What Makes Fine Chinese Ceramics So Valuable?
“The main things that determine the value of a piece are the market for that type of piece, its condition, and the provenance.” Architectural Digest spoke with Vicki Paloympis, an associate specialist in Chinese ceramics and works of art, about how value is determined. Learn more

Why Do Parrots (and People) Eat Clay?
In Southeastern Peru, hundreds of parrots gather on a cliff to feast on their favourite delicacy—clay. New research gives us more insight into the why behind clay-eating, a phenomenon also shared by pregnant mothers. Learn more

Rare 18th century Chinese plate inspired by the Ming dynasty is tipped to sell for £150,000 after being found at the back of a kitchen cupboard
One person’s trash is another person’s treasure! After being found in the back of a kitchen cupboard, this rare 18^th century Ming dynasty-inspired plate is estimated to sell for £150,000 ($250,577 CAD). Learn more

How I went potty at the Tate Modern’s ceramics ‘factory’
“On entering the room, wannabe potters will pick up a factory card and clock in, before donning an apron. Then it’s time to get your hands dirty—albeit while looking out across the rooftops of central London.” This journalist tried her hand at crafting a jug at Clare Twomey’s Tate Modern ceramics ‘factory.’ Learn more

Lead image: Parrots eating clay on a cliff in Tambopata Province, Madre de Dios, Peru. Photo courtesy Brian Ralphs