Copper-based artefacts from Virginian sites: microstructures and compositions
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to correlate chemical compositions and metallographic observations from archaeological artefacts discovered at Virginian Native American sites dated between the 16th and 18th centuries AD and expand the dataset available for this type of material. The compositional analyses were carried out using LA–ICP–MS and EPMA, and visual observations were conducted using SEM–EDS and optical microscopy. The presence, absence and types of inclusions in the metal are correlated to the nature of
the copper-based metal (native copper, European smelted copper and brass) as defined by chemical composition. In addition, the techniques used to shape the objects have been deduced from metallographic observations and variations in the processes according to the type of the metal have been identified, suggesting that Native American peoples adapted their techniques to the new materials imported by the Europeans.
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