A multi-analytical approach for the identification of technological processes in ancient jewellery

Abstract

The compositional and structural characterization of the constituent alloys of precious metal artefacts is the basis for understanding the technological processes used in the art of the ancient goldsmiths. This research presents a multi-analytical approach to the study of the technologies of ancient jewellery manufacturing through the use of non-traditional methods. The development of original methods, such as the application of hardware devices and software programs, allows us to overcome the application limits of traditional analysis, as in the study of Castellani’s earrings, where statistical analyses were carried out using Pearson’s Coefficient Correlation and Cluster Analysis to identify the correlation of elements in the soldering areas. For the Tarquinia fibula, a methodology based on Imaging Analysis has been used to measure the geometrical parameters involved in the construction of the jewel. For another study, a new experimental apparatus was set up in order to identify markers on the micro/nano scale. It consists of a scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDS) integrated with XRF, an equipment developed in order to obtain a greater depth of analysis and a better integration of the compositional data. The aim of the work has been to integrate data from different analytical methodologies in order to identify technology transfer and/or production features, as well as the circulation of the goldsmith’s artefacts.