At first glance, a vase and an urn might look like twins — both are containers, often decorative, and made of similar materials like ceramic, glass, or metal. But their shapes, uses, and meanings are quite different.
A vase is typically used to hold flowers. It has a wide opening at the top and is designed to showcase beauty. Vases come in all shapes and sizes, from slim and tall to short and round. They’re found in homes, schools, and galleries — adding colour to tabletops or corners.
An urn, by contrast, usually has a lid and is more symbolic. In modern times, it is most commonly used to store the ashes of a loved one after cremation, giving it a deeper, emotional meaning. But historically, urns were also used in ancient cultures to store food, oil, or even treasure.
Another difference is design: vases are made to be looked at from all sides, while urns are often heavier and more symmetrical, with a secure top.
So, while both may sit quietly on a shelf, one holds flowers and cheer, and the other often holds memory and meaning. If it’s open and light — it’s likely a vase. If it has a lid and history — that’s an urn.