Abstract
In the framework of the GeObs project (http://geobs.univ-rouen.fr), we performed an exhaustive field study of obsidian lava outcropping of the Nemrut volcano (Eastern Anatolia, Turkey). The macroscopic facies and the chemical characteristics of all sub-sources are presented and compared to each other. The Nemrut sub-sources are distinguishable using microscopic facies and geochemistry (LA-ICP-MS) data. We identify and characterize two previously unknown outcrops (Sıcaksu and Kayacık) both located in the western part of the volcano. Only one of these two sub-sources, which is located near the Sıcaksu village, provides good quality obsidian for knapping. 40Ar/39Ar dating of this sub-source reveals an age of 203±18ka. It thus belongs to the early pre-caldera stage of the Nemrut volcano. Chemical analyses and comparison of datasets composed of results from (i) all Nemrut sub-sources sampled, and (ii) various artefacts presented in Khalidi et al. (this volume) and attributed to the Nemrut volcano, clearly match these artefacts to the Sıcaksu outcrop.The data obtained from a combination of fieldwork and geochemical analyses demonstrates that the Sıcaksu obsidian outcrop was exceptionally important as a source of obsidian raw material for the production of tools and artefacts by prehistoric populations across the Near East.
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