Let me start by saying this incense burner is *gorgeous* at first glance. The Middle Eastern-inspired design with intricate patterns and shiny gold plating makes it a stunning decorative piece for my meditation corner. I’ve used it with frankincense cones during yoga sessions, and the ambiance it creates is undeniably serene.

However, the moment I picked it up, I noticed how *lightweight and thin* the metal feels—almost like cheap tin. For $14, I wasn’t expecting solid brass, but the flimsiness is hard to ignore. The lid doesn’t sit perfectly straight (mine’s slightly crooked), which bugs my OCD every time I use it.

The included tongs are a nice touch—they’re cute and functional for handling charcoal or incense. But here’s the catch: if you’re burning taller incense cones, the lid won’t close fully until they burn down halfway. Not ideal if you want to trap smoke for a slower release.

As for safety, I wouldn’t trust this with *burning charcoal* for resin incense. The thin metal heats up quickly, and I worry about warping or even melting over time. Instead, I use it as a *decorative holder* for shorter cones or sticks—it works fine for that.

Final verdict? It’s pretty on a shelf (from afar) and does the job for light use, but don’t expect durability or high-end craftsmanship. If you need a functional burner for daily heavy use, invest in something sturdier. This one’s best suited as a *budget-friendly decor piece* or gift for someone who prioritizes looks over utility.