Which Is the Best Hookah — Chinese Imposter or Authentic Egyptian?

Choosing a smoking pipe in NZ takes a bit more consideration than you think. For instance, you’ll need to ensure that you’re buying an authentic Egyptian hookah and not a Chinese imitation. So, which is which? Read further to know the characteristics of authentic Egyptian hookahs vs. Chinese imposters.

Egyptian hookahs

Egypt is known as the premier destination for hookahs and their accessories. This is because Egyptian artisans take great pride in their work, handing the art of hookah making from generation to generation.

Until now, most authentic Egyptian hookahs are handmade and exhibit the following characteristics:

• Base

Egyptian hookahs come with a hand-blown coloured glass base. You’ll notice that it has a variety of shapes and colours, even laden with hand-painted designs. In addition, some Egyptian hookah bases feature 18-karat gold or platinum paint bands.

• Hose

Egyptian hookah hoses are traditionally made by hand. The process involves the cutting of material and turning of wood, assembled only by skilled craftspeople.

• Shaft

Authentic Egyptian hooks typically come with metal shafts. They can be made of stainless steel, brass, or chrome-plated brass, formed by expert welders in various heights, designs, and decorative elements. In addition, the number of hose holders may vary.

When you buy a smoking pipe in NZ that claims to be genuine, make sure you check the number of hoses. Generally, it is sold with the same number of hoses the shaft can hold.

Chinese hookahs

Unlike authentic Egyptian hookahs, Chinese versions are not made by hand. Instead, they are mass-produced in factories and often use cheap materials. For example, Chinese imposter hookahs have moulded glass or acrylic bases, coloured only by spray paint.

In addition, their hoses are made of flimsy plastic or simulated wood, while the shafts are composed of tin or aluminium.

One glaring sign that a hookah is a Chinese imitation is the shaft. If it matches the colour of the glass, then you can be sure it’s not Egyptian.

Do you want to get your hands on a genuine Egyptian smoking pipe in NZ? Make sure to look out for the characteristics above and purchase the hookah from a reliable and experienced online store.