I just received this HIC Porcelain Octagonal Mortar and Pestle and I've used it three times already. It's a great color, shape and works very well. There are more expensive, heavier, made of marble or other material and if you want to spend more you can, but this one works just great! Great for grinding spices and herbs and mixing together ingredients into a fine powder - instead of using a food processor for example. Been meaning to get and use one of these for many years, and no time like the present.