2.2.3. Symbolic appraisal
The symbolic meanings attached to souvenirs suggest a message about where souvenirs are from and the spirit souvenirs evoke.These aspects add value to souvenirs. Generally, symbolic appraisal includes authenticity or genuine, craftsmanship, cultural linkage, originality, and memory. Souvenirs that are produced for the tourism industry are used to maintain authenticity and to support indigenous identity. There is an inseparable association between the authentic and the indigenous. All that is indigenous is authentic, but not all that is authentic is indigenous That is to say, indigenous is a subset of authentic. Research has identified that authenticity is acknowledged as a universal value and an essential
motif for tourists.Previous literature indicates that tourists who purchase a souvenir tend to emphasize its perceived authenticity. Furthermore, research indicates that the perception of authenticity is an important determinant of perceived value, which influences souvenir-repurchasing intentions. For example, maple syrup from Canada is the most iconic food souvenir since the source of maple syrup is not only authentic but also indigenous. Similarly, take salt for example, Indian black salt, Sicilian sea salt are Alsace gray salt not only authentic but also indigenous. Taking these food souvenirs back home can best represent the originality for food specialties.