The role of small particles in the study of archaeological ceramics

Abstract

Small particles play a decisive role in determining the magnetic properties of archaeological ceramics. These particles, mainly iron oxides, may be inherited from the parent material, they can be produced during the firing procedures, or they can be a product of burial in the ground and weathering. Mössbauer spectroscopy is a technique that is suitable for the identification of these particles and for their use in the reconstruction of the production techniques of ancient ceramics.