German Landmarks Ceramic Stein without metal lid. This decorative engraved German Landmarks stein will make for a great gift or decorative accent to your collection! Colorfully decorated collectible beer steins are popular around the world. The origin of German Beer Steins date back to the 14th century. In German speaking regions a stein may be known as "Humpen" (if stoneware) or "Steinkrug" (if earthenware). "Beer Stein" derives from the German words "Bier" (beer) and "Steinkrug" (literally stone crock).