Characterization of metallic artefacts from the Iron Age culture in Campania (Italy): a multi-analytical study

摘要

Sixteen archaeological findings of Iron age from three sites in the Campania region have been examined for their mineral components, chemical and Pb-isotope composition by a multi-technique approach (XRD, SEM-EDS, ICP-MS, AAS and LIRMS). Mineralogical analyses have emphasized the occurrence of three types of objects, Pb- and Cu-based artefacts and finds made of Fe-bearing phases. Qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses have allowed the characterisation of different elements from the metal and slag objects. Pb-isotope signatures suggest a wide range of possible provenances of the source ores throughout the Mediterranean realm. The results are discussed in relation to mineral characterization, to some aspects of local metallurgical techniques and metal source areas.