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.
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)