The spike located at the edge of the crucible makes the metal smelting work much easier. It has high strength and durability and is used to melt metals used in jewelry such as gold, silver and various alloys.
Refractory ceramic crucibles must be cured before use with some flux, borax and/or boric acid until they are vitrified. When it is first heated, it must be done progressively to remove moisture, preventing it from breaking.