Pottery holds a significant place in the cultural heritage of Gilan, known as one of the major centers of pottery in Persia. The ancient roots of pottery in Gilan can be traced back to the Iron Age, as evidenced by numerous pottery artifacts discovered in archaeological sites like Marlik and Amlash. These findings highlight the longstanding tradition of pottery-making in the region.

In the local dialect of Gilan, the term "Sofal" refers to fired clay, emphasizing the importance of the firing process in pottery production. Excavations in sites such as Marlik, Talesh, and Deylaman have provided valuable insights into the early human settlements in Gilan. Pottery served as a means for creating essential tools and stunning sculptures with glossy black finishes. In ancient times, pottery artifacts in Gilan were crafted in black, red, and grey hues. Rather than using black pigment, the people of Gilan employed a unique firing technique. By reducing the amount of oxygen during the kiln firing process, they were able to alter the mineral components, resulting in a distinctive black clay body. Another characteristic of Gilan pottery is its terracotta color, which arises from the region's rich iron components in the earth.

Gilan pottery had a primary focus on practicality, with a greater emphasis on utilitarian uses rather than decorative purposes. It is noteworthy that Gilan stands out as a region with a wide variety of pottery utensils. Among these, the "Gemej" holds particular significance. Gemej is a spherical dish with a cone-shaped lid and a convex bottom. It served as the most commonly used cooking utensil in the region. Gemej pottery pieces typically feature simple and basic decorations, highlighting their practical functionality.

Women predominantly practice pottery in Gilan, while men are typically involved in clay preparation. The potters of Gilan employ simple and handmade tools for their craft. Clay preparation itself is a laborious process that involves multiple stages.

In modern times, Gilan pottery can be categorized into two groups. The first group comprises mass-produced items used in daily life, such as roof tiles, utensils like Gemej, vases, and saltshakers. The pottery dishes fall under this category and can be further divided into three classes based on their specific use for drinks, serving meals, or cooking. The second group consists of decorative pottery pieces that are more artistic in nature, including clay sculptures.

The Gemej and other pottery traditions of Gilan serve as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage, skillful craftsmanship, and practical ingenuity. These traditional clay pottery forms continue to hold significance in contemporary times, preserving the legacy of Gilan's ancient pottery-making tradition.