Elucidating the Origin of Middle Atlantic Pre-Contact Copper Artifacts Using Laser Ablation ICP–MS

Abstract

An examination of pre-Contact copper artifacts from sites in the Middle Atlantic Region provides valuable and quantifiable information about trade networks, social organization, and cultural change. Using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA ICP–MS) a copper “fingerprint” with which to compare artifacts to known native sources is established. In this way, copper artifacts are traced back to their probable geologic source. Results from a recent study conducted on Late Archaic to Late Woodland copper artifacts illustrate some of the benefits of conducting this type of research. This current study adds to previous research providing further validity of this analytical technique in prehistoric copper provenance studies.