Local Specialties: Quality hand-crafted goods in Mexico include attractive rustic pottery, clothing items, leather, woodwork, blown glass, tequila and wool items. Jewelry is very popular among tourists, ranging from diamond and fine gems in gold to attractive stones set in silver.

Archaeological artifacts: Some shops may offer archaeological items, but beware that these may not be real. Authentic archaeologic relics cannot be exported legally from the country. Reputable stores and museum shops offer quality reproductions of artifacts.

Banned items: Many countries, including the United States and Canada, prohibit the importation of items from endangered species and live animals or birds. This includes products from tortoise shell, turtle hide, crocodile skin, black coral and many animal furs. The United States also prohibits importing cigars and other items manufactured in Cuba.

Ceramics: A wide variety of unique pottery is available, produced at both low temperature and high temperature. Low temperature pottery is normally a lighter weight than high temperature, but you can tell the difference by carefully flicking a fingernail against the item. High temperature pottery will create a ring something like the sound of a bell, while low temperature pottery creates a more solid sound similar to wood. Also be aware that low temperature pottery often contains lead, which is toxic to humans, especially pottery finished in a green glaze that can release the lead. Be especially careful to avoid using this pottery with any food or drink and to ensure the pottery is not accessible to children who may put the item to their mouth.

Copper: Quality copper items are usually rather heavy. To tell if the item only has a copper paint finish (and is not solid copper), find a less visible spot on the item and scratch with a fingernail to see if the copper finish comes off.

Silver: Mexico has a law that makes it mandatory to stamp silver with the markings "sterling" or ".925." These indicate that the item has 925 grams of silver in every 1000 grams (the rest being copper). Items of higher purity can also be found. Watch for similar but slightly different markings meant to fool you.

Textiles: Bright colored clothing can be a warning sign in Mexico. Less expensive dyes are offered bright, and will run or fade when washed. Try dry cleaning or washing carefully in cold water to maintain the color of the items you purchase. Purple is one color that often ends up being a problem with running or fading.

Wool: Try to verify that the items you are buying are truly wool, this can be difficult. Sometimes products made of synthetic fabrics are passed-off as wool.

Currency & Prices: Prices and exchange rates vary, so shop around and find exactly what you want. The choices are endless. Mexican and U.S. cash is usually readily accepted, along with credit cards. Banks and bank machines will give you advances, if necessary.

Size Conversions: When shopping for clothes, keep in mind that the sizes in Mexico are different. The following chart will help you compare: