<P> Both methods were used in the production of salt, as has been proved in Nueve Cerros by Andrews and Dillon . The salt was then transported using the river routes, such as the Chixoy, that forms the Usumacinta when it confluences with the Pasión river near Altar de Sacrificios . </P> <P> Chocolate was used throughout the Maya region to make sauces, and for drinks . It was grown mostly in the lowlands, so it was often transported to the highlands . Chocolate has a long and interesting history in Mesoamerica . From the very beginning of Mesoamerican culture some 3500 years ago, it has been associated with long distance trade and luxury . The Pacific Coast of Guatemala, thought to be the original source of Olmec culture, was, and remained, an important area of cacao cultivation . The Maya passed on the knowledge of cacao through oral histories, in Jade and Obsidian among other stonework, pottery and the creation of intricate, multicolored documents (codices) that extolled cacao and documented its use in everyday life and rituals, centuries before the arrival of the Spanish . In the centuries after initial contact between the Spaniards and indigenous peoples of the New World, hundreds of descriptive accounts, monographs and treatises were published that contained information on the agricultural, botanical, economic, geographical, historical, medical and nutritional aspects of cacao / chocolate . </P> <P> Ceramics and furniture were produced in specialized workshops, before being traded for other goods . Often the work produced by a particular artist, or workhouse was heavily sought after by the elite classes of Maya society and therefore artists were usually supported by and primarily catered to the wealthy . Art goods such as jade carvings, paintings, ornate furniture and metal ornaments were also circulated through kingdoms, and local areas amongst the elite classes . This was usually the case because of the strong symbol of power and wealth the fine arts provided . The ceramics produced were mainly plates, vases, and cylindrical drinking vessels . When painted, these pots were usually painted red, with gold and black detailing . </P> <P> Rare stones such as jade and pyrite were also very important to the Maya elite . These stones were relatively hard to acquire, so having such treasures helped them to solidify their positions in the society . Many of the stones were collected in the highlands of the empire in Guatemala, so when long - distance trade developed, the Maya were able to move more of these precious stones to the lowland cities . </P>

Where did most of the salt come from what reason explains that maya