Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v1.c29.s2.8

v1.c29.s2.8

The issue of ore-artefact correlation through the ascertainment of trace element compositions may be recalled. This approach may be pursued but we have pointed out in our chapter 10 the hazards and pitfalls. The ore used from one locality may not have consistent composition, and the ancient smelting process, which is not fully knowable at present, would certainly have considerable effect on the trace element composition as proven by recent smelting experiments. (Tylecote *et al.*, 1977) Lead isotope ratio correlation between ore and artefact has been successful in one case. (Gale *et al.*, 1982) Reporting failure in another case, Craddock (1985: 59) has rightly questioned that lead in the artefact could come not only from the copper ore (as presumed) but also from the flux and deliberate addition of lead during smelting. Correlation in the case of alloy artefacts is even more severe; the origin of iron in brass icon for example could be from copper or zinc or even some iron rod which might have been used to stir and mix the molten metals.