In the Alternative Health world the question always arises, "How do I know I am getting the best product?" Here are some guidelines to help you with your decision on selecting a quality clay so you won't be fooled by advertising hype.

I find the proof is in the pudding. Clays in the powder form tend to look exactly alike yet are different in many ways. Comparison of the hydrated products gives better insights into the quality of the clay. The true proof will be found in the results.

Some things to look for to tell if you have a Quality Clay are:

1. Compare side by side by mixing each clay as a hydrated mask or mud paste using the manufacturer's directions. Remember to shake well, do not stir, when mixing clay. Compare them. You want a smooth textured expanding clay that absorbs water to make a creamy paste.
2. Hold each jar of clay mask one at a time on the flat palm of your hand. Tap the side of the jar. Notice if you feel a vibration. The vibration shows its expansion and creamy state.
3. Compare the texture. Which one is gritty, and which one is smooth and creamy? Apply them doing half your face with one clay and half with the other. When the clays dry, does one side feel tighter than the other? Does the clay stay on the face, or does it turn powdery and brush off easily? Which maintains the strongest pull? The stronger and tighter the hold, the stronger the pull and detox potential.
4. Next, compare in liquid form, again by using the manufacturer's directions. Mix clay and water in a glass or food grade plastic bottle with a plastic lid. Shake well. Let stand for 30 minutes. Once fully mixed, does the clay water stay emulsified or separate? All clays will have some heavier particles that settle to the bottom. You want a clay that stays evenly emulsified. If the clay and water totally separate, look for a different clay. A quality liquid clay mixture should have about the consistency of chocolate milk. It should be tasteless. When holding it in your mouth you will only feel cool, not sweet, salty, bitter or sour. After swallowing you will have a slightly chalkiness that will wash away with a sip of water. If you pour the liquid mixture in a glass and swirl it around, it should leave a thin coating on the glass.
5. The label should let you know if you have a Sodium or a Calcium-based Bentonite/Montmorillonite clay. Calcium Bentonites are more widely known as healing clays. Avoid the really high sodium content clays. Clays with over 2% are considered Sodium clays. Some are as high as 8% or more.
6. Make sure your clay is alkaline with a pH between 8.5 - 10.0 to reduce acidity and balance the body.
7. Needless to say you want a company where you can easily contact them to ask questions and talk to a person. Ask for proof as to its purity, along with an analysis of its primary minerals.