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The tradition of miniature carvings in stone is an ancient one – the Romans (and their Renaissance imitators) used precious and semiprecious stones, from agate to emerald, as well as layered glass. Today the tradition (see Reggia di Portici & the Vesuvian Villas) primarily focuses on gems from the sea. Coral is prized for its rich colours and soft texture, while shells are fashioned into delicate cameos.

Italian artisans have been famed for centuries for their goldwork, from refined chains to elaborate table centrepieces. Neapolitan artists have inherited these traditions since ancient times and local jewellery shops attest to the beauty of their creations. All gold used is at least 18 carat and prices are comparable with those in other countries, while the quality is higher.

The area remains one of the great sources for antiques; especially plentiful are Baroque and Rococo furniture, as well as Empire pieces. Antique ceramics, too, are a good buy, notably handpainted tiles.

Gouache is a watercolour paint applied to heavy paper that gives a very soft yet vibrant look to the surface of a painting. In the 19th century gouache landscapes of Naples, its bay and Vesuvius were produced in great numbers and many are still available at surprisingly reasonable prices. These were the postcard souvenirs for Grand Tour visitors, and to the modern eye they evoke a sense of idyllic charm. There are also prints of the more famous scenes.

For centuries Naples has been internationally noted for its production of figures for nativity scenes, many produced by the very best sculptors, especially in the 18th century, and reproduced to this day by skilled artisans whose botteghe (work-shops) line the streets of the old town. A popular secular figure, done in a variety of media, including terracotta, papier mâché , wood, or a combination of materials, is Pulcinella. There are also all sorts of other delightful puppets, dolls and masks.

Amalfi was once home to a thriving paper industry (see Museo della Carta, Amalfi) and the tradition carries on here in a limited way. Neapolitan playing cards and tarocchi (tarot) cards are sold in Naples.

Believe it or not, souvenir stalls outside archaeological sites – notably Pompeii – can be good sources of creditable copies of famous Roman sculptures, but you’ll need to pick through the junk and be prepared to bargain.

Ceramics – both copies of traditional designs and original creations – are notable in Capri, Ravello and Vietri.

There are a number of cobblers on the island (see Sandalmakers, Capri) who will make made-to-measure sandals within a matter of hours.

Renowned for centuries for its gorgeous intarsio (marquetry), Sorrento continues the tradition to this day, and some of the pieces are true works of art.