X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of a Gold Ibex and other Artifacts from Akrotiri

Abstract

The in-situ X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) of ancient artifacts from the excavation area of Akrotiri, Greece was performed using novel instrumentation composed of a portable silicon PIN thermoelectrically cooled X-ray detector, a miniature X-ray source, and portable data acquisition devices. The main objective of the analyses was to explore the potential of the XRF technique to provide answers to a wide range of archaeometric questions. Of particular interest was the bulk composition of metal alloys, especially of gold, the characterization of bronze artifacts, identification of inorganic elements which are fingerprints of the minerals used in wall painting pigments, and identification of the painting materials used for the decoration of clay vase surfaces. The results of the in-situ XRF survey, primarily those of the bulk composition and welding technology of the gold ibex, are discussed and compared with existing archaeological literature.