The methods of manufacture of several cylinder and stamp seals from 3000 B. C. to 500 A.D., as well as those of several modern fakes, were studied by the scanning electron microscope via a replication technique. Silicone rubber impressions and acrylic castings of seal bores and other parts were taken from four genuine and four fake seals, in addition to various stones cut experimentally with modern tools. Differences were observed between the abrasion characteristics of genuine and fake seals. The bores of genuine seals showed similar features over all periods studied. It is thought that the continued application of a slurry was the usual method of abrasion in ancient times. -- AATA