No two are exactly alike, each has it's own beautiful array of natural pearled colors. The Abalone Shell and holder can be used for burning incense or smudging. Great for meditation! The act of smudging is done with an Abalone Shell with the appropriate herbs directly lit or burned on a coal or Charcoal Tablet. When using charcoal tablets, the bowl or shell should be filled with sand or a flat stone to prevent overheating the container. Can also be used as decoration, jewelry holder and more. The shell is approximately 1.5 to 2 inches high. When the shell is rested on the tripod, it is around 4 to 5 inches tall.