There is nothing better than a Thai granite mortar & pestle for grinding spices and making smooth curry and seasoning pastes. This is our most popular size. If you think that bringing it out and putting it back will be a chore, consider a 6" one; if you have lots of counter space and intend to leave it out, consider a bigger one. Clean with warm water, and deodorize, if desired, with lemon juice or vinegar. (Be careful not to let the pestle roll off the counter – depending on the flooring material, you will either put a big dent in it, or the pestle will break.)