| This dissertation has developed new methodological skills applied to archaeometry using Rare Earth Elements (REEs), major and trace elements analysis. The overall aim of this project has been the investigation of the possibilities of REEs and trace elements, through the analysis of bones and other archaeological materials, to arrange a series of experimental methodological proposals specifically applied taking into account the studied materials and the archaeological contexts. At the same time, we have proposed a robust and reproducible analytical methodology to obtain results which has produced a meaningful and reliable statistical analysis of our database. In chapter II the parameters employed during the analysis are shown. In the introductive chapter III prior studies about bone diagenesis are mentioned. Natural alterations (weathering, dissolution, precipitation, microbial attack, mineral replacement, ionic substitution, recrystallization and isotopic exchange) are commonly referred to as diagenesis and many authors have been intensively investigating how those processes are affecting and limiting the reconstruction of diet, migration, pathology and, in general, our understanding of ancient civilizations. In Chapter IV, following the work of prior researchers, we have tried to rebuild the relation of chemical elements between bones (cremated and buried) and post-burial environment, especially pointing to REEs and trace elements values for the better understanding of diagenesis impact. In the second part of Chapter IV, a total of 324 buried bone samples of different kinds, surface layers of bones and soils close and far to the bones, have been analyzed. The samples analyzed have been mostly ribs and femurs. In our case determination of the major elements, trace and rare earth elements (REEs, lanthanides) in skeletal remains has been carried out by ICP-OES and ICP-MS analysis. Finally some examples of paleodiet reconstruction have been carried out showing differences on diet profile of the same population depending on the class of sample employed (cremated or carbonized for Corral de Saus and femur or rib for c/Virgen de la Misericordia). In chapter V has been developed a strategy for a correct interpretation of heavy metal results (As, Hg and Pb) in bones and mummified body tissues. We have considered that the methodology employed for archaeological bone analyses could be also appropriate for forensic archaeological cases. Arsenic, mercury and lead analysis were carried out to analyze, bones, mummified tissues and other material in contact to the corpses as: sediments, woods and clothes to control postmortem processes. The method have been based on the correct selection of samples to control diagenetic factors and to identify antemortem concentration of As, Hg and Pb, in order to address forensic archaeology studies, excluding erroneous conclusions induced by postmortem processes. Humanist Florentine individuals chemical analysis of toxic metals (As, Hg) have been carried out to clarify if their death was due to poisoning, as some conspirationist theories have suggested, and find out the biological relevance of elemental concentrations not conditioned by postmortem processes. In the case of ceramist the aim have been understand, through analysis of metals (As, Hg, Pb), if its high concentrations levels are due to the long exposure to toxic agents (colors) based on heavy metals or if the results are conditioned by diagenetic processes. The results obtained have not confirmed the hypotheses of poisoning of Italian Renaissance Florentines humanists (Giovanni Pico Della Mirandola, Angelo Poliziano and Girolamo Benivieni). Further analyses are necessary to confirm or advance new hypotheses about the cause of death of the famous Florentine literates. In the samples of Montelupo Fiorentino has not been possible to determine whether the individual have been a ceramist. Analyses of heavy metals in forensic archaeological studies have been an effective tool in certain situations to rebuilt solid interpretations about human exposure to a single o more toxic elements. Although rigorous sampling methodologies, to control postmortem processes, have to be taken into account in order to address more robust conclusions. (Abstract shortened by UMI.). |
