No abstract

A well reasoned lead (Pb) isotope-driven provenance study lies in concert with a comprehensively evaluated database of geological ore sources and accompanying archaeological and contextual information. In this paper we have compiled and evaluated all currently available Pb isotope data for galena and K-feldspars in China, and provided geological interpretations for how their ore-forming substances evolved across relevant tectonic terrains. We pay particular attention to the geological settings of host ore deposits that were likely exploited in ancient and historic China, detailing the heterogeneity and homogeneity of their ore formation across different metallogenic provinces and belts. Using the isotope database, and supportive geological and archaeological background information, three case studies are presented that detail the provenancing of Chinese cultural materials. The isotope data themselves are presented in ternary diagrams that allow for their concise and accurate comparison.

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Understanding the effects of impurities, segregation, undercooling, and solidification velocity is necessary to reconstruct prehistoric As-Cu alloy manufacturing processes and practices. Moreover, these alloys often contain a wide variety of minor and trace elements so that the binary As-Cu equilibrium phase diagram is not yet a full and adequate representation of the system in relation to arsenical bronze artifacts as-cast in ancient molds. Furthermore, the variable cooling rates in as-cast As-Cu predominant alloys due to mold material choice would have had profound effects on the formation of inversely segregated arsenic. Alloys with 1-15 wt.% arsenic were prepared and studied using differential thermal analysis (DTA), metallography, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDXS). Equilibrium diagrams were established and the potential influence of trace elements discussed. A new liquidus curve for the equilibrium diagram in this composition range, slightly higher in temperature, was established.