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Understanding Post-Depositional Processes Through Electron Microbeam Analysis of Archaeological Bone From Se Missouri

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 February 2011

Diana M. Greenlee  and
Robert C. Dunnell
Diana M. Greenlee
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, DH-05, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
Robert C. Dunnell
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, DH-05, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195
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Abstract

Archaic period bone in Southeast Missouri characteristically displays a patchy black and reddish brown staining not found on bone from other-aged sites in the area. The stained areas appear to be post-depositional additions to the bone matrix. Preliminary tests suggest that the stain is inorganic and is rich in Mn and Fe. Here, electron microbeam analysis is used in conjunction with SEM imaging to identify elements specifically linked to the staining. Comparisons are made between the elemental composition of bone and associated sediments from several different-aged occupations. Variability in postdepositional environment between occupations is documented and related to the presence of the staining.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 267: Symposium J – Materials Issues in Art and Archaeology III , 1992 , 883
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1992

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References

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