The Secret of Sassuolo: Why Italian Porcelain is the Ultimate Choice

There is one small city in Northern Italy, in the Emilia-Romagna region, that produces nearly a third of the world’s premium porcelain tiles. Its name is Sassuolo, and for over 60 years, it has been the undisputed global hub of the ceramic industry.

Every brand in our catalog – ITALGRANITI, MIRAGE, IMOLA, DEL-CONCA, FAP, SUPERGRES, SANT’AGOSTINO, CERDOMUS, FLORIM – originates from this area, all within a 50 km radius.

Why there?

The local soil is exceptionally rich in high-quality clay. Since the 1950s, an entire ecosystem of manufacturers, suppliers, laboratories, designers, and distributors has been built there, known as the Distretto Ceramico di Sassuolo. Their industry association, Confindustria Ceramica, establishes standards that serve as the global benchmark to this day.

In 2026, despite growing competition from China, Spain, Turkey, and India, Italian porcelain remains the gold standard. The difference lies not in marketing, but in the physics and chemistry of the material.

What makes Italian porcelain unique?

• Clay Composition: Italian porcelain is crafted from a precise blend of kaolin, clay, quartz, and feldspar, with rigorous mineral purification. Water absorption is lower than 0.5%, ensuring absolute resistance to frost, stains, and cracks (compared to standard tiles that can reach up to 3%).

• Firing Temperature: Tiles are fired at 1,200 to 1,250 degrees Celsius in long, strictly controlled kilns. This process creates vitrification – the internal structure becomes nearly glass-like, impermeable, and extremely resistant to scratches, thermal shock, and acids.

• R-Ratings (Slip Resistance): The Italians lead in German DIN standardization. From R9 (bedrooms) to R13 (outdoors and open showers), brands explicitly specify the R-rating for every series.

• PEI Ratings (Abrasion Resistance): A metric ensuring durability for decades. In private homes, PEI 3-4 is the standard, while PEI 5 is reserved for high-traffic commercial areas.

Leading brands in our showroom

• ITALGRANITI: Experts in porcelain stoneware for large-scale projects, with an emphasis on realistic stone and wood replication.

• MIRAGE: A technological pioneer combining 3D digital printing. Leads the revolution of XXL formats (up to 160×320 cm) in thin profiles for a continuous, luxurious look.

• IMOLA: A historic brand (since 1874) blending classical and modern design. Ideal for both Tuscan styles and contemporary minimalism.

• COEM: Specialists in natural stone and slate effects. They bring the wild, warm character of nature into the home, with authentic textures that combine timeless luxury with high durability.

• CERAMICHE SUPERGRES: Specializes in design harmony between flooring and wall coverings. Offers “complete” solutions for bathrooms, with high-end finishing that creates a seamless visual flow.

• FLORIM: A leading Italian brand in the luxury porcelain world. Renowned for surfaces and tiles with a strong presence, high precision, advanced finishes, and a clean architectural aesthetic that connects luxury, innovation, and durability.

• FAP Ceramiche: Specialists in wall tiles. The brand leads in decoration, 3D textures, luxurious mosaics, and complementary elements that allow for walls with depth, movement, and distinct design character.

[LINK:/product-catalog/](View full collections)

Technologies defining 2026

1. Rectified Edges: Laser-cutting that allows for a minimal joint (grout line) of only 1-2 mm for a continuous look.

2. Thin Slabs: 3-6 mm thickness, ideal for tiling over existing surfaces without demolition, or for cladding kitchen surfaces.

3. Digital Printing: 400+ DPI inkjet printing ensuring every tile is unique (variation), just like in nature.

4. Large Formats: Formats like 120×240 cm that reshape spatial perception and create a monumental aesthetic.

5. Anti-Slip Coatings: Advanced technologies for R11-R12 ratings, ensuring safety without compromising on maintenance.

Tailored to your project

• Residential: Large formats for living rooms, mosaic series for wet rooms, and durable wood-look porcelain for kitchens.

• Commercial: Emphasis on PEI 4-5 and R10/R11 for high-traffic durability in offices and restaurants.

• Outdoor: Specialized series with R11 ratings and above, resistant to outdoor conditions and temperature fluctuations. [LINK:/outdoor-flooring/](See outdoor flooring).

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain? A: Ceramics are fired at lower temperatures with higher water absorption. Porcelain (porcelain stoneware) is fired at 1,200 degrees, creating a nearly impermeable material that is significantly more durable.

Q: Is Italian porcelain better than Chinese? A: Yes. The difference lies in the clay composition, printing technology, and rigorous quality control that prevents warping and color variation between tiles.

Q: Can Italian porcelain be installed over existing tiles? A: Absolutely, especially using thin slabs (Slim Slabs). It is an excellent solution for rapid renovation without destroying infrastructure.

Q: Large or small format? A: Large for a modern, open, and easy-to-clean look. Small for classic styles, complex spaces, or designs with many cuts.

Italian porcelain is the culmination of decades of healthy competition, technological innovation, and strict European standards. Even in 2026, it remains the safest and highest-quality choice for those who will not compromise on aesthetics and long-term durability.

Looking to find the perfect flooring for your project? The team of experts at Elitzur Topolsky invites you to our showroom. Phone: 02-673-0734 Address: 2 HaParsa St., Talpiot, Jerusalem.