I received this very heavy crystal ball in the mail. I am an Empath with so many other gifts I can not begin. I am not by any means bragging either. Sometimes as you know being empathic can be horrible. I can see in crystal, glass that has a tint. I can even bring out in cards symbols what is behind the black in the cards. I use The Angel Oracle cards. So decided to buy a crystal ball. I saw them at a meeting at the center I attend and was impressed. Well when I first received this, I felt the energy from the box. I have not charged it and attuned it to me yet. I could not believe the clearness of the ball. I came online to see if I really got crystal and to boot clear. If this is the real thing which others says is then it is a buy. It is a little bigger than I expected too. I can see in any size, but thought professionally it would appear to a client. I had a young boy say, "What she can see beneath the black". I thought he said, "I stink". I said what? I then realized that I amazed him. Sometimes I do need a magnifying glass though to see behind the black, but I thought it was a normal thing. So it this is the real thing, it is a great buy. I will again review this product after it is charged, cleansed, purified and then attuned to me. I then will tell you what I think. I would say though be careful to not drop it on a hard surface either. It is heavy. I have been checking prices of these items for awhile. I came across this and was surprised. I need the ball to gaze into, so hoping for the best. I mean this could make a center piece and get a lot of people talking. It is beautiful. I do agree with the cautions they give, DO NOT PUT INTO DIRECT SUNLIGHT. I will not let my grandkids take out a magnifying glass for they could start a fire or burn an insect. This is on the same idea. Will indeed write my final review. I do recommend never misuse an item meant for gazing. Treat the ball good though, it is a living thing if it is crystal and never misuse anything. Do not use as a toy, as many have in doing the OUIGI board. Give it positive energy only. Will get back to all.Joan, [email protected]