Discusses the potential of Raman spectroscopy as an on-site technique for characterizing ancient ceramics. This non-destructive analysis can provide information on the manufacturing process, and at times, even assist in dating ancient artefacts. Much information can be obtained from the microstructure of ceramics bodies and in the nanostructure of glasses, glaze and enamels. Raman signatures are specific to the technology applied to a starting batch and to the manufacturing process. The paper presents case studies on: the use of cassiterite for opacification and its role in Islamic three-colour wares and polychrome lustre pottery from the Abbasid to Fatimid periods; the invention by the Medici Duke of hybrid-paste porcelain , known as Medici porcelain, and of the soft-paste porcelain by French manufacturers (Chantilly, Mennecy, Saint-Cloud) in the eighteenth century; the development of the underglaze pigment technology by Iznik and subsequently by Kûtayha Ottoman potters; and the use of lapis lazuli as an unexpected pigment in Lajvardina wares from Iran. The author also explores the relationship between glassmakers and potters. -- ICCROM