Granite and pXRF: An Experimental Approach to Nondestructive Sourcing of Ground Stone Tools

Summary

Portable x-ray fluorescence (pXRF) is a rapidly spreading yet controversial technology in archaeology. Current research on pXRF technology has produced marked improvements in calibration standards and accuracy of results. Previous studies using pXRF have focused primarily on obsidian and basalt; however with current advances in technology it is possible and necessary to test the applicability of pXRF to accurately characterize heterogeneous materials. This research proposes a methodology for analyzing heterogeneous materials, specifically granite, via pXRF with the aid of international standards for calibration. Preliminary data obtained from Maya ground stone tools collected from Belize indicate pXRF can be successfully employed as a method for distinguishing between granitic plutons. Belize ground stones present an ideal case study due to the isolated nature of granitic outcrops within the Maya Mountains. The Maya Mountains are composed of three petrographically distinct but visually similar two-mica granite plutons. By collecting multiple data points per granite artifact it is possible to obtain an average geochemical composition that is an accurate reflection of the material. This will allow for possible locating of source regions and production sites within and near the mountains as well as a more thorough reconstruction of ancient exchange patterns.

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This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 80th Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA (2015)

Keywords

Spatial Coverage