Journal of Raman Spectroscopy · 1997 · 63 citations · 0 references
Natural SciencesArchaeologyMaterials SciencePrehistoric ArchaeologySpectroscopic AnalysisSpectroscopyArchaeological ContextInfrared SpectroscopyMaterial AuthenticityMaterial Deterioration ProcessesOptical SpectroscopyRaman SpectroscopyArchaeological SignificanceFeasibility Study DesignFourier Transform Raman SpectroscopyMolecular FingerprintingMolecular Vibrational ModesRaman Data AnalysisRaman SpectraRaman Spectral Interpretation
The Fourier transform Raman spectra of resins from several American Indian artefacts dating from 3000 yr BP were analysed and compared with samples of ancient and contemporary resins. The application of the technique to the non-destructive identification of materials of archaeological significance and their attribution is demonstrated. Molecular vibrational spectroscopic assignments, particularly of bands observed in the 1500–1750 cm-1 region, are useful as a source of identification of differences between natural resins and for evidence of degradation under sample interment conditions. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.