FAQs

1. What makes Metztli ceramics unique?

At Metztli, each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans, making every item one-of-a-kind. They use traditional techniques combined with contemporary designs to create ceramics that are both functional and artistic. Every vase, mug, plate, and pitcher is made from high-quality clay, hand-painted, and carefully fired to ensure durability and beauty. However, because they are manufactured 100% by hand by Mexican craftsman each piece is unique, like you! Imperfections will be present.

2. Are your ceramics safe for food and drinks?

Yes! Our mugs, plates, bowls, and glasses are 100% food-safe and made using lead-free, non-toxic glazes. They are perfect for serving both hot and cold beverages, as well as meals.

3. Can I put Metztli ceramics in the microwave and dishwasher?

While most of our ceramics are microwave and dishwasher-safe, we recommend handwashing to preserve the hand-painted details and extend the lifespan of each piece. If using a dishwasher, place items on the top rack and use a gentle cycle.

4. Do you offer custom or personalized orders?

Yes! We love creating custom ceramic pieces for special occasions, gifts, or home decor. Whether you want a specific design, color, or engraving, contact us, and we’ll work with you to bring your vision to life. Please keep in mind that these pieces are not only made when the order is placed, but they need to travel almost 3,000 miles to get to you assuming you're local, production takes at least 2-3 months and this does not include shipping time.

5. Where do you ship, and how long does delivery take?

We currently ship all over the United States! Shipping times vary depending on location:

  • Domestic (within the United States): 3–7 business days

6. What if my order arrives damaged?

We take great care in packaging, but if your item arrives broken or damaged, please contact us within 24 hours of delivery with photos of the damage. We’ll be happy to send a replacement or issue a refund, depending on the situation.

7. Do you offer wholesale or bulk orders?

Yes! If you’re interested in wholesale pricing for retail, events, or restaurants, please reach out to us. We offer special pricing for bulk orders and can accommodate custom designs but please take the production time in consideration. 

8. How can I take care of my ceramics?

To keep your Metztli ceramics looking their best:

  • Handwash recommended (especially for painted or glazed pieces).
  • Avoid sudden temperature changes (extreme heat or cold can cause cracking).
  • Store carefully to prevent chipping—stack plates with soft padding in between.

9. What materials do you use?

Our ceramics are made from clay, carefully shaped, fired, and finished with lead-free glazes. We prioritize eco-friendly and sustainable materials whenever possible.

10. How can I contact you?

We’d love to hear from you! You can reach us through:

  • Email: metztliboutique07@gmail.com
  • Instagram: @metztli_boutique_
  • Contact Form: Available on our website

Meet the Owner

Hi! My name is Natalie, and I’m the owner of Metztli 🌙🖤✨

Born and raised in the Bay Area, I’ve lived in Richmond for half of my life. I graduated from Cal State East Bay with a degree in Business Administration with a General Management Concentration—but don’t let that fool you, I’m learning as I go!

My family has been in Jalisco (on both sides) for over four generations, and our roots run deep. Growing up, the moment school let out, we were on a plane to Mexico. The day before school started, we were on a plane back home. My parents instilled a deep love for our motherland and culture. My father was always proud of his Indigenous roots and rich brown skin, while my mother, with her fair complexion and green eyes, never missed a chance to put on a Pedro Infante movie or blast Mexican music. To me, they represented the beautiful, albeit sad, mix of Mexico—our Indigenous ancestors and our European ones.

Because of them, I love my culture.

At Metztli, we carry traditional home and kitchen goods handcrafted by artisans from Tonalá and Tlaquepaque. We also collaborate with local vendors and Latino/a-owned businesses, giving them a space to showcase their products.

The goal of my tiendita is to blend tradition with the new generation—a fusion of our ancestors and our future. In my store, you’ll find everything from handmade, traditional pottery and textiles to millenial/zennial art, stickers, cups, and clothing. A way for our older generations to feel the nostalgic reminder of home, and a way for our newer generations to connect their roots and keep our cultura alive. Together we are stronger. United, we make our ancestors proud.

Porque somos de aquí Y de allá 🤎

THE LOGO & THE NAME

The name

Mētztli (Nahuatl: [metstɬi]; also spelled Meztli or Metzi, literally meaning “Moon”)In Aztec mythology, Mētztli was a god or goddess of the moon, the night, and farmers.

 For some of us, it's difficult to trace the exact Indigenous tribe our ancestors belonged. When choosing a name for my store, I wanted it to be in my language. But Spanish isn’t Mexico’s native tongue, is it? So, I looked into Indigenous languages. The two most widely spoken are Nahuatl and Maya. After researching my region, I learned that Nahuatl was spoken in some of its tribes, so I chose a Nahuatl name. I’ve always been enamored with the Moon, so the name Metztli was a no brainer.

The Logo

My incredibly talented brother (also a CSUEB student!) designed the logo.

The feathered serpent on the upper left of the crescent moon represents Quetzalcoatl, a key figure in Mesoamerican culture.
The bottom half of the crescent features Forget-Me-Nots and roots, reminding us never to forget our culture, ancestors, and where we come from.

The fire symbolizes strength and transformation.

A Little Bit About Tonalá

Tonalá, Jalisco, has been a center of artisan craftsmanship since pre-Hispanic times. The name Tonalá comes from the Nahuatl word Tonallan, meaning “where the sun rises.” Before the Spanish arrived, the region was home to Indigenous groups like the Cocas, known for their pottery and handcrafted goods.

To this day, Tonalá is famous for its rich artisan traditions, including:

• Barro Bruñido (Burnished Clay): Hand-polished, brightly painted pottery.

• Barro Canelo: Clay pottery with a natural cinnamon-brown hue.

• Glassblowing: Recycled glass is transformed into vibrant, hand-blown pieces.

• Woven textiles: Handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional looms.

One of the biggest draws to Tonalá is its tianguis (open-air market), which takes place every Thursday and Sunday. This market has existed for centuries, dating back to the region’s Indigenous roots. Vendors fill the streets, selling everything from handmade pottery and textiles to wooden toys and metalwork.

Tonalá isn’t just a place—it’s a living, breathing representation of Mexico’s artisanal heritage, and I’m honored to bring a little piece of it to you through Metztli.