Gnome mugs are made from a variety of materials, commonly earthenware, ceramic, stoneware, aluminum and new bone china.
Gnome mugs come in a range of decorative finishes, including colorful hand-painted and speckled glazes, watercolor printed decals, personalized laser engraving, and high-gloss finishes.
Gnome mugs are sold both as single items and as multi-mug sets. Some listings offer individual mugs while others show sets (for example, four-mug packs).
Gnome mugs are commonly tied to seasonal holidays and gift occasions, including Christmas/holiday themes, Easter/spring sets, and use as hostess, housewarming, teacher or shower gifts.
Lidded gnome mugs are frequently labeled hand-wash only and often noted as not microwave-safe. The common advice is to hand wash them and avoid microwave heating unless the product specifically states otherwise.