UNM researchers identify ancient Pueblo azurite sources using chemistry
University of New Mexico archaeologists and partners published research linking Ancestral Pueblo azurite samples to specific geological sites in Utah and New Mexico.
Study confirms mineral origins
Kari Schleher led a team that examined whether archaeologists can determine the sources of azurite used by Ancestral Pueblo people. The research group published their findings in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports after analyzing isotopic data from ancient samples. They compared archaeological specimens against two important geological sources located in New Mexico and Utah to find matches. Isotopic measurements of lead, strontium and copper proved effective for determining the original source location of each blue mineral sample.
Travel patterns revealed by data
The majority of azurite specimens examined were probably gathered in Lisbon Valley, which is located close to modern Moab in Utah. Two specific archaeological specimens originated from the Zuni Mountains located in New Mexico instead. The team determined that Pueblo communities used materials from both locations by about A.D. 600 in their daily lives. This evidence suggests Ancestral Pueblo people traveled or commuted long distances to mine raw materials they needed for pigment and paint.
Collaboration enabled new insights
The project involved a synergistic partnership between Schleher, Alyson Thibodeau of Dickinson College, Ryan Mathur of Juniata College and Jonathan Till. Each person brought different skills to the study as they developed a workable approach for linking specimens to geological sources. Schleher provided archaeological expertise while Thibodeau contributed geochemical expertise to help identify the origins of the ancient blue copper mineral.
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