Several techniques are reviewed and described which permit the examination of artifacts without impairing them in any significant way. The described methods include: visual examination, macrostructural analysis, specimen surface examination, fracture surface examination, examination of macroetched sections, microstructural analysis with optical microscope, scanning electromicroscope, neutron activation analysis, x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectrophotometry, x-ray diffraction, x-ray radiography, ultrasonic inspection, and hardness testing. -- AATA