Quality from Kent: Preliminary results from the analysis of fifth‐ to seventh‐century silver alloys

Abstract

Abstract This paper explores early results from the chemical and lead isotope analysis of 30 silver‐alloy objects from southeast England dating between the fifth and seventh centuries CE, presenting limited aspects of the three main analyses that were conducted. First, a comparison of the results gained from surface x‐ray fluorescence (pXRF) values and drilled samples subjected to microwave‐plasma atomic emission spectrometry (MP‐AES) will be explored for their methodological implications. Second, proportions of silver, gold and lead derived from MP‐AES will be investigated in order to model the basic characteristics of the bullion used to create these objects and the recycling practices to which it was subjected. Third, results from stable lead isotope analysis (LIA) will permit some comments on the most likely sources of the silver and the possibility of refinement processes. We offer some preliminary perspectives on the socio‐economic implications of these results, insofar as the control and management of precious metals are concerned.

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