Gourds, flowers, crickets and cicadas make a lively summer scene. [Photo/CRIENGLISH.com]

Batch production of colored-glaze in Boshan began in the Tang Dynasty, and began to take shape in the Ming Dynasty. The Hearth God Temple was built in the Wanli Period of the Ming Dynasty to worship Nvwa and pray for the prosperity for the colored-glaze industry. Of the various kinds of colored-glaze products, figured glass balls are the most common ones. The small glass figured balls are popular with children who use them as marbles. Tinted and embossed glass vessels are also favored by many people for their exquisite, elegant appearance, especially those finished with a yellow glaze. Other accessories including bracelets, beads, flower receptacles and hanging vases are loved by many people as well.