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Gerry McDonnell

Archaeometallurgy

 

Archaeometallurgy

Archaeometallurgy is the study of ancient and historic metallurgical technology.  It encompasses all aspects of metal production, artefact manufacture,  artefact use and disposal.  It is undervalued by many archaeologists and historians (see "issues" pages), but  is essential to understanding the economies and dynamics of prehistoric and historic communities.

The following pages provide some basic thoughts on aspects of archaeometallurgy.  Some pages are deliberately controversial, and are generated to make you think.

IRON

COPPER

METALWORKING_RESIDUES

It is expected that these pages will be expanded significantly  over the latter part of 2009.  

Note to A-level, Undergraduate and Master’s students, I will not write your essays for you but happy to advise.

 

SEM Micrograph of Flake Hammer Scale

BSE SEM Micrograph  Iron Age Smelting Slag (North Cave, East Yorks)