Article: CONSERVATION & DECORATION : A SHORT HISTORY OF THE CANDY BOX
An emblematic object for special occasions, the bonbonnière has crossed the centuries with grace and refinement. From its Italian origins, where it symbolised sharing and celebration through delicate sweet gifts, to its remarkable comeback in our contemporary homes, it embodies much more than just a simple container.
At Cristallerie de Montbronn, we are committed to perpetuating this art of entertaining by reinterpreting the bonbonnière in its noblest version: crystal. In this article, we invite you to rediscover the fascinating history of the bonbonnière, its many uses and its elegant variations that will enhance your home and your most precious events.
The history of the candy box
ORIGINS
The candy box, also known as the drageoir, originated in Italian weddings. In fact, bomboneria was the name given to small gifts, often food, that the bride and groom gave to their guests during their wedding day.
Middle-Ages
The sugared almonds we all know weren't introduced until the Middle Ages. Over time, this custom spread throughout the world, and the word "candy box" came to designate this small receptacle, often made of tulle or silk, which contained a few of these sugar almonds. For even more prestigious occasions, glass or crystal candy boxes were already available for religious events such as christenings or communions.
Today
Today, a candy box refers to any jar or receptacle used to store confectionery. Forgotten or put aside for a long time, they have been making a comeback in homes for several years now.
Why would I use a candy box ?
A multifunctional object
Function
The candy box does not stop at its main function : preserving sweet food. Its shape and composition ensure that it will last a long time and be effective, but it will also look good in your home while doing that. Therefore, it's just as much a storage tool as a decorative object.
For every taste
Sizes
Depending on the size, candy boxes can also be used in a wide variety of ways : they can be individual, to accompany each plate during your receptions ; or larger, for a more convivial srvice or on a more ornate chest of drawers.
A diverse utilization
Creativity
Be creative! Candy jars can also be used to hold other elements that will add to your interior decoration, in a more aesthetic and playful way, such as candles or flowers. They can also be used in the bathroom to hold your cotton wool, washing-up liquid, etc.
Different shapes for different usages
Shapes
Cristallerie de Montbronn offers a range of different shapes and sizes of crystal candy boxes, all of which can serve the same purpose or expand the range of possible uses.
Why choose a crystal candy box ?
As well as looking more chic and generally more aesthetically pleasing, crystal bonbonnières are also easier to look after, and contrary to what you might think, crystal is no more fragile than glass - quite the opposite.
To find out more about the differences between glass and crystal, take a look at our dedicated blog post.
What's more, crystal will be less likely to stain than glass over time, making it much more durable to use.
Please don't hesitate to check out our care recommendations to keep your crystal looking its best!
Our different shapes
As of 2025, Cristallerie de Montbronn offers three main types of crystal candy boxes :
A symbol of elegance, sharing and refinement, the bonbonnière has stood the test of time, reinventing itself without ever losing its original charm. Whether it's for sweets, souvenirs or everyday objects, it retains that little extra something that makes all the difference. Discover our bonbonnières now on our website!
Label EPV
Cristallerie de Montbronn est labelisée EPV depuis 2007