This upper portion of this piece was very poorly assembled using a glue which seemed to be an epoxy. It was in separate pieces upon receipt. The upper portion of the bulb extends into the silver and was threaded (male) and did not mesh with anything in the silver or mouthpiece. The entire upper portion has been given an interal brass tubing support. It may not be traditional, but it is robust. To a best estimate, the mouthpiece has not been used.