Mexico's Silver Streak

Mexico is a leading producer of silver and has been for hundreds of years. Indeed, the Aztecs and other indigenous people no longer in existence gave more importance to silver than to gold. When the Spaniards discovered its abundance in the New World, it became one of their main exports. Currently much of Mexico's silver production comes from the silver mining town of Taxco, far away from Los Cabos (between Mexico City and Acapulco).

Picking the Right Piece
Many (though not all) people selling jewelry and accessories on the street or by the docks are not selling the real thing, so it's best to go to a reputable shop and look for two details on the back of a piece you like (both of them together are your best bet): the .925 stamp and the "Mex" or "Mexico" stamp required by the Government of Mexico. The numbers mean the piece has at least 92.5 percent of pure silver (also called sterling silver) and only 7.5 percent of another alloy (you may find some pieces with a .975 but this is more expensive). Another stamp depicting its quality may read "sterling." Remember, you get what you pay for — if it's too cheap, it's not silver and may end up turning your finger or wrist an odd color.

The options in Mexico are varied and plentiful, with goods depicting anything from Mayan motifs to inspirational messages. In Los Cabos, as well as throughout the entire country, you'll find jewelry and silverware as well as wood and ceramic decorations adorned with the precious metal. Among the cherished choices: a sterling silver angel for your holiday decorations, candlesticks for a romantic rendezvous or a picture frame to remember that special occasion. Now that drinking tea is back in vogue, a silver tea set makes for a treasured gift.

Whether you're planning a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, silver enhances any occasion beautifully. Using a silver piece regularly is actually better than only taking it out of the cabinet once a year; frequent use (and subsequent proper cleaning) allows the metal to develop a patina that makes it more attractive and reduces tarnish.

Keeping it Spiffy
To make sure your silver pieces last a lifetime, wash and dry by hand promptly after each use. Apply polish with one soft cloth, then buff thoroughly with another clean, dry one. Make sure you get all polish or cleaner out and don't apply it often. Silver jewelry should be stored in a sealed plastic bag when not in use — but feel free to wear it as often as possible, as this diminishes tarnish.

Click here to browse the shops in Cabo and other areas of Baja, Mexico.