You buy alabaster with fewer losses when you follow clear checks. Luxor villages produce the most genuine pieces. Where workshops operate West Bank villages Al Qurna area hosts many family workshops. Production happens near homes. Selection stays wide. Roadside workshops Located on routes between temples. Access stays easy during tours. Prices start high. Workshop pricing structure Material Egyptian alabaster costs more than resin. Weight drives price. Size Small bowls sell at low prices. Lamps and statues rise fast with size. Finish Hand-polished pieces cost more. Machine-polished pieces cost less. Price examples from recent checks Small bowls under 10 cm in diameter sell in the low double-digit dollar range. Medium vase, around 20 cm, sells at mid double-digit range. Lamps over 30 cm reach a higher double-digit range or more. Authenticity checks you use Touch Surface feels cool. Light Thin edges allow light through. Sound Tapped gently, the stone gives a soft tone. Visual Natural veins appear uneven. What to avoid Bright white pieces with painted veins. Claims of marble origin. Lightweight items are sold as stone. Workshop visit tactics Ask to see raw stone blocks. Watch carving or polishing. Ask total price before packing. Decline shipping offers inside workshops. Bargaining rules in Luxor workshops Start at one-third of the first price. Increase in small steps only. Stop before emotional attachment forms. Walk out without comment when the price stalls. Transport and packing Wrap items with clothing in luggage. Keep fragile pieces in carry-on when size allows. Avoid checked baggage for lamps. Who benefits from guided visits You save time with a guide. You avoid resin stops. You reach workshops with stable quality.