My husband was expecting a "plastic" base and didn't think that he needed something so "tall". But he absolutely loves it and is glad it's so tall because his necklaces don't drag on the dresser top and keeps them neatly separated so he can choose one without a tangled mess! The base is a heavy, quality glass or porcelain and ideal for keeping his longer-reaching necklaces in place and setting smaller items on there. He's also using the bars for his tie clips-just clamps them on for easy access and selection! Quality product, he was impressed!