Questions concerning an artifact usually relate to fabrication technology, including ore source, fuel source, smelting practice, casting methods, composition, homogeneity and the nature of the mechanical working to which the artifact was subjected. A variety of microscopic and microanalytical techniques have been used to tap the memory of such artifacts. Examples illustrated include a copper ingot from Timna, Israel and an early steel bracelet from Bacqah valley, Jordan, and work on Shakudo alloy layers. Photographs, metallographs, figures, 17 references.