What needs to be clarified
Examine the separation surfaces, assess their suitability and test physical fit through spatial and microscopic features without damaging the objects.
Materials to prepare
- Damaged housing and fragment in separate protective packaging
- Discovery and initial-condition photographs of both items
- Transfer records and information about cleaning, gluing or other treatment
What to compare
Record dimensions, thickness, relief and edge condition, then compare overall geometry. Examine continuation of lines, surface details and fracture structure under magnification. Test fit without forcing contact or removing material; account for contamination and missing areas when assessing significant similarities and differences.
Possible outcome of the analysis
An illustrated report may support a common original object, exclude that origin or remain inconclusive, documenting comparisons with scaled photographs and diagrams.
Limits of the conclusions
Matching plastic colour and composition do not prove a common object. Even an established fit does not determine breakage time, the person involved or cause without further evidence.