They come in all sorts of patterns and sizes. A dome style could also double as a cheese server. You can choose between a dish that will hold a single stick of butter or one that will hold a pound brick. It’s quite possible you’ll want to have several handy so you’ll have one for use at every meal.

These make great gifts too. Price can range from $10 at an antique store to $150 for a fine Waterford crystal butter dish made in Ireland. You can be proud to give these for just about any occasion. Most bridal registries contain a few select pieces of crystal, and even if you don’t see a butter dish on the list, you can be certain it will be appreciated and well-used by the recipient.

Perhaps you’ve heard from someone who is concerned about the lead content in crystal. You can find a butter dish with a silver base and a crystal, domed lid. This ensures that you will still experience the gleam of the morning sun bouncing brilliant light off the crystal while shedding that worry about whether your butter has been contaminated. Those for whom this isn’t an apprehension would also enjoy the stunning pairing of sterling silver and crystal.

Regardless of whether you are a city dweller or country at heart, a crystal butter dish will always be a beautiful and welcome addition at your table.