If you are using this as an urn, 1) I'm sorry for your loss 2) you won't regret this one. I hated the idea of my dad in some average-looking urn. I wanted something special, unique, something that kind of resembled his personality. This was a clear winner but like you, I was worried about it being hand-crafted, its durability, and its size. It's VERY well made with the beautiful intricacy of the engraving - pictures don't do it justice. It's a screw-on so easy use. My dad was an average-sized HiSee full review