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Spectrochemical Characterization of Red Pigments Used in Classic Period Maya Funerary Practices
Author(s) -
Quintana P.,
Tiesler V.,
Conde M.,
Trejotzab R.,
Bolio C.,
Alvaradogil J. J.,
Aguilar D.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
archaeometry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.716
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1475-4754
pISSN - 0003-813X
DOI - 10.1111/arcm.12144
Subject(s) - chromaticity , cinnabar , hematite , pigment , reflectivity , brightness , spectroscopy , characterization (materials science) , materials science , mineralogy , optics , chemistry , nanotechnology , physics , organic chemistry , quantum mechanics
We studied the composition, colour chromaticity and form of application of red pigments in human bone samples from seven C lassic period L owland M aya sites. The samples were analysed by X ‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy ( SEM ) and X ‐ray energy‐dispersive spectroscopy ( EDS ). Colour was measured using conventional colour identification standards ( M unsell) and reflectance spectroscopy. Cinnabar and hematite were identified as the pigments used. We conclude that the reflectance method has advantages over conventional visual results, as it provides precise, objective and quantifiable optical data to distinguish the chromaticity, colour saturation and brightness of the pigments.