Pigments play a crucial role in identifying the authenticity of historical and cultural artworks and hold a special position in conservation and restoration practices. Among them, recognizing the methods of identifying pigments used in historical manuscripts plays a significant role in determining the identity and authenticity of these artifacts. This study aims to review various methods of identifying pigments employed in historical manuscripts. Investigations in this paper have been conducted using non-destructive analytical techniques such as Scanning Electron
Microscope with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM), Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), micro-Raman spectroscopy, and optical imaging for elemental and compositional identification of pigments. Among these methods, SEM-EDX and point analysis
have been more commonly used in identifying historical pigments. Additionally, the combination of multiple techniques can be a suitable solution for identification purposes, but depending on the purpose of identification and the sensitivity of the artifact, factors such as the feasibility of on-site analysis or transferring artifacts to various laboratory facilities, using non-destructive methods, the possibility of sampling, and the significance and value of the artifact should be considered to adopt the best possible method. If necessary, combining tests and instrumental methods can lead to a more accurate understanding of pigments alongside their chemical composition.