Israeli archaeologists have launched a groundbreaking project to trace the origins of ancient pottery using advanced scientific techniques. Led by Dr. Anat Cohen Weinberger of the Israel Antiquities Authority and Prof. Alexander Fantalkin of Tel Aviv University, the initiative aims to create a unique 'fingerprint' for each ancient kiln by analyzing the mineral and chemical composition of pottery. This will allow researchers to identify where vessels were made, even when the original kilns are missing from excavation sites. The project combines petrography and chemical analysis to build a national database, or 'kiln atlas,' which will serve as a long-term resource for studying ancient trade, cultural links, and population movements. Experts believe this effort will significantly enhance understanding of economic and social connections in the ancient world.