Silver is the reason most people shop in Taxco, and the selection is enormous. Hundreds of shops sell everything from simple rings and bracelets to elaborate sterling silver mirrors and furniture. Prices are significantly lower than what you would pay in the US or Europe, but some knowledge helps.
Look for pieces stamped 925 (or occasionally 922), meaning 92.5% (or 92.2%) pure silver. Anything marked 100 is suspect, since pure silver is too soft to hold its shape in jewelry. Avoid pieces labelled "Alpaca" or "German silver," which contain no silver at all. When in doubt, stick to established shops.
Bartering is common, especially if you are paying cash. Shops in the central plaza tend to charge more than those on the side streets, but the quality is generally consistent throughout town.
Beyond silver, the central market sells Guerrero pottery, indigenous crafts, carved wooden masks, and woven baskets. Prices are reasonable and the work is often striking.