The choice is yours (well...yours and your wallet's), and the result can be warm, charming and 'authentic' either way.

The dinnerware pieces themselves may be created using ceramic, porcelain, clay, glass, stoneware, terra cotta or even wood.

Patterns in french country dinnerware can range from very simple and plain to colorful and elaborate.

Some pattern examples include:

1. Fig designs, which may include vines or green leaves and dark purple fig swirls,

2. Wisteria pattern, highlighting shades of violet to purple wisteria and flowing green vines,

3. Lavender design features lavender blossoms with tiny green leaves and a background of yellow, and

4. Provence design dinnerware, with rich reds, oranges, yellows and maroons, mimicing the hills of Roussillon.

You may not know the actual pattern of the french country dinnerware that you love, but there will be no doubt as to the bold, warm colors - deep yellows, rustic reds, antique golds, natural browns, shades of green to bring the outdoors in and of course, french blue.

Mix and match the dinnerware pieces with silver cutlery and serving pieces, using wicker and rush baskets as additional display or providing a function to the meal.