USE
These pots are quite sturdy and due to the natural stone, they conserve and conduct heat very well. The pots can be heated on the stovetop (gas, electric, or glass), over fire, or can be put in an oven. Due to the metal band, DO NOT use the pot in a microwave.
Do not submit the pots to drastic temperature changes. Allow the pots to adjust slowly to heat, heating them slowly until they are hot, either on the stove or in the oven. Likewise, you should also allow the pieces to adjust to room temperature before washing or storing them, and never sit a hot pot on a cold surface such as granite or tile.
The pot can get very hot and retain heat for a long period of time, so be careful in handling a hot pot, and always place the pot on a trivet to prevent damage to any surface.
CARE
For cleaning, avoid using the dishwasher, hand washing is recommended by adding coarse salt and boiling water, and use hard bristles brush to scrub the pot. If it is heavily soiled, you can also fill the pot with warm, soapy water, and allow it to soak briefly before washing, then scrubbing lightly with a sponge or soft cloth. Avoid strongly scented soaps or all together since soap can impart a flavor the stone. Make sure the pots are thoroughly dry before storing, and give them a coating of sesame oil on the inside.
Since the pot is made of natural stone, sometimes cracks can develop with use, however these cracks do not necessarily render the pot useless. If these cracks appear, fill the bowl with broth and begin heating the bowl until it boils. It might leak a bit, however, after a while the crack should seal and you should be able to use it again. Obviously if the crack is too large, you will need to replace the pot.