Materials tell part of the story
Composition, construction, texture, aging, wear, manufacturing characteristics, and consistency can be relevant. Yet an imitation may use similar materials. Material examination is one part of a larger system.
The hand leaves information
Depending on the object, examination may consider construction, stitching, assembly, finishing, proportions, material handling, and design consistency. Not every handmade variation proves authenticity, and not every perfect finish proves originality.
Context is the multiplier
A material observation becomes more useful when it agrees with the claimed collection, period, construction method, and provenance. Independent signals pointing in the same direction are stronger than one convincing detail.
Document, do not romanticize
The language of luxury can be beautiful without becoming vague. A serious record describes what was observed, what it supports, what remains unknown, and which evidence would improve the assessment.