Examine the pot for a continuous spiral that starts at the bottom and travels all the way up its body. This pattern comes from the artisan's fingers, and the coarser the pottery is, the easier it is to see. If the pottery lacks this trait, it could be machine made.
Determine the type of material used to make the pot by examining the patterns the grains and glaze leave behind. Earthenware ceramics, for example, must be glazed because the grains of clay leave tiny holes where air and liquid can leak out. Stoneware, on the other hand, holds water even when left unglazed; it is usually gray in color and very smooth. Porcelain will also hold water unglazed, but it is often white or cream-colored and sometimes translucent. It is also very hard to scratch.
Look through a magnifying glass at any trademarks or etchings on the pottery. Trademarks often look like small patterns containing swirls, vines and flowers, depending on the artisan. Some include initials and dates as well. Match these trademarks with those you find online to pinpoint the pot's origin.