So what is a poker chip? Are there different styles? Are they made of different stuff? What are your choices for a poker chips set?

Several choices await you when you decide to buy a poker chips set. Your selection will depend on your personal needs. However you should be aware of a few things when selecting your poker chips. You should think about weight, material and the pattern of your chips.

One of the most important facts to think about is what they are made of. The material will determine the price of the poker chip. For the one time poker party host that does not want to throw a lot of money away plastic may be the way to go.

These low cost insignificant poker chips can be purchased at most stores. Their average cost is $1.50 for a set of 100. The color range is limited to blue, red and white

The next step up is composite poker chips. These are significantly more expensive than their plastic counter parts but they'll last a lifetime if cared for properly. These chips often have a metal weight embedded in them to make them feel more like "real poker chips".

The most elite poker chips are the clay ones. Of course you will be paying much more for these poker chips. With meticulous care they will only last 5-6 years. But for the true blue poker player there is no other way, clay chips are a must have. The subtle clink and smooth feel brings the casino right into your home. To the poker game lover the cost is absolutely worth it.

As far as weight and pattern go, they're more a matter of personal preference. Do you like 11.5 grams, or does 13 grams feel better to you? Do you like plain chips with a border of hearts, diamonds, clubs, and spades or do you prefer to have an image of blazin' pocket aces on your chips.

The chips that you buy are certainly a status symbol with your poker friends. They define you as an elite player or just an average cheap skate. The choice is yours.

Poker chips are a luxury; something on which to splurge. So find a set you can really be proud of and go for it!