The Emerald Explorer is a glass anal probe that provides great stimulation. It can be used vaginally, but the design of the toy as well as the handle make it better-geared towards anal use. It's glass, so it's nonporous, but I'd still advise using a condom or washing with care if you're sharing this, as anal toys can breed bacteria. Vaginally, there's no curve so it's not geared towards G-spot stimulation, and I'm pretty sure it wouldn't work as P-spot stimulation, though I don't have the anatomy to check on that. The Explorer is 1.25" in diameter, so it's open to beginners as well as more advanced users. While this makes a great masturbatory toy, it could definitely be used with a partner - have them slowly pull the toy out while you orgasm, or thrust it in and out. This is one toy that's got tons of possibilities! Because it's glass, temperature play is also an option.

The Emerald Explorer is made of Pyrex glass, so all types of lube will work with this toy. Since this toy is designed for anal use, I recommend getting an anal lube such as Sliquid Sassy - they tend to be a bit thicker and less likely to dry out, so you don't have to reapply and can just enjoy! While you don't need much to coat the toy, definitely make sure things are nice and slippery so you don't cause any damage. Glass is generally smooth, and the Emerald Explorer is no exception, easily running along skin. The glass has a smooth finish and is somewhere between transparent and opaque. The Explorer is available in both green and purple. I chose the former, as having a purple Emerald Explorer sounded ridiculous to me! The green is beautiful, though not exactly as picture - not bright, somewhat muted, but nonetheless a gorgeous shade and a far departure from any of my other toys. The Explorer had no odor or taste upon removing it from its packaging and doesn't retain any.

The Explorer is 6.5", with 4.5" being insertable. Its diameter of 1.25" makes it accessible to all types of anal players, though the bulges definitely ensure you get the most out of its size. The 2" that isn't insertable is due to the big ring that acts as a handle as well as a "flared" base to ensure the Explorer doesn't get lost. It's PERFECT for you or a partner putting a couple fingers in and controlling the speed and direction of the Explorer. The shaft itself is made up of 5 bulges. This is an awesome design because it mimics the feelings of beads in the satisfying, noticeable sensation upon insertion/removal, but as a glass toy it's easier to move in and out quickly than more flexible beads.

The Explorer is an anal probe, and its bulges allow the sphincter to close around each, creating a pleasurable sensation upon each bulge's insertion and removal. While this was comparable to beads, the speed you can get from a harder material as well as from the easy-to-maneuver handle make this very different from the beads I own. The Explorer's handle makes it an excellent toy for partner play as well as solo play. The bulges, combined with the handle, make this toy my favorite anal one yet. Since it doesn't have a plug-type base that can get in the way, the Explorer is easy to use in conjunction with other play, allowing DP for those with vaginas. Basically, this toy is a great, easy way to enjoy anal play, either during masturbation or partnered sex.

Pyrex glass is one of the lowest-maintenance toys there is. While you must be careful to check for chips, Pyrex is designed to break into larger pieces upon shattering, so this is not likely to happen. Glass is completely boilable and dishwasher-safe, so you can sterilize it every few uses or between partners; if you don't need quite that much, soap and water or a toy wipe can easily be used to wipe it down. The Explorer can hold some fluids in the ridges between each bulge, so make sure to clean that thoroughly. Pyrex is pretty resistant to breaking, but still store it away from anywhere it might get bumped into or at any risk for breaking. The Explorer comes with a velvety pouch and I recommend keeping it either in that or perhaps a hard box to further improve its chances.

The Explorer came wrapped in plastic wrap and set into a red pouch, like most of the other glass toys I've received. It's pretty enough, so I don't think you'd have to re-wrap it to gift it. No instructions, etc. were included, but since it's not a vibrator, there really isn't much to say! The packaging could definitely be used for storage - including the bubble wrap, if you feel that's necessary.

This was my first anal probe - I hate that word, makes me feel like an alien - but wow, it's effective! Tons of fun for anal play and a good warm-up to the idea of dynamic anal play.

I knew I'd have fun with the Explorer, but I didn't know just HOW much - and wow, was this fun! It was easy to work with one hand, unlike my x-10 beads, so I had one free to provide clitoral or vaginal stimulation. I haven't yet done any temperature play, but I bet it would feel absolutely incredible. This toy is quickly becoming a favorite in my collection!