Kintsugi
Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken objects with gold. Through Kintsugi, broken pieces can not only be repaired, but shine with new beauty. The flaw is not "hidden" but highlighted as part of the piece's history, adding to its character and beauty.
Kintsugi is traditionally created in an often lengthy process from the gradual application and polishing of an Urushi lacquer dusted with gold or silver pigments. The technique can be used to join pieces of 2 or more shards together.
Missing pieces can be completely replaced by the gold Urushi putty, or matching shards are inserted which often contrast intentionally with the original pottery by using different colors or materials such as glass.
Meanwhile, a simpler method of kintsugi repair is often carried out, whereby ceramic glue is mixed with gold powder and, after the pieces have been joined together, further gold powder is sprinkled on the broken edge as it dries. This method also produces beautiful results, but does not quite achieve the finesse of the filigree works of art produced by "real" Kintsugi repairs.
Soon you can read more about kintsugi on the KEIKO Green Tea Blog.