Lava is a less expensive option, therefore easier to replace if needed; however, Lava emits less heat than glass. Warning! Lava can absorb moisture and might pop when the fire is lit and it gets hot. If it was raining, even if fire bowl was covered, Lava still might have moisture in it. Let Lava dry as much as possible and let the fire bowl work for 30-40 minutes while standing away from it. Lava can sometimes explode and could be dangerous. If you have kids around the fire bowl when the fire is off lava might be less "appetizing" for kids than glass, especially the glass beans that could look as a candy. Always watch children around the fire bowl. Contemporary Fire Bowl - Cross Fire Burner with Lava.Contemporary Fire Bowl - Cross Fire Burner with Aqua Blue Glass