Mineralogical investigation of desert patina on flint artifacts : a case study

Part of : Mediterranean archaeology & archaeometry : international journal ; Vol.2, No.2, 2002, pages 23-34

Issue:
Pages:
23-34
Author:
Abstract:
The paper presents results of mineralogical analyses of patina covering pieces of flint from Deir el-Bahari in Egypt. Mineral composition and different kinds of patina are described. Forming ofpatina in desert conditions is connected with removal of iron, manganese, silicon, calcium and other metals from chemical structure of flint, as well as, crystallisation of minerals - derivative ofthese metals, both on the surface of flint and below surface. Composite patina covers of varying chemical composition and thickness are described, and the potential dating of flints from patination is discussed.
Subject:
Subject (LC):
Keywords:
weathering, mineralogy, Egypt, Palaeolithic, flint, patination
Notes:
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