This article will examine the benefits that can be derived from technical studies of Aboriginal objects, and give some examples of how the technical approach has been used to improve the understanding and conservation of Aboriginal artifacts and collections. Specific examples discussed include the study of totem poles in the Ninstints village on Haida Gwaii, British Columbia; the conservation treatment of a Mi’kmaq prayer book; the study of Norval Morrisseau’s painting materials; the characterization and condition survey of treaty documents on parchment from the collection of Library and Archives Canada; research on pesticides identification and decontamination; and risk assessment as a collection management tool. Technical knowledge can often be used in conjunction with traditional knowledge. When these two approaches are used together, common preservation goals can be successfully achieved.