New books on archaeometallurgy and handheld XRF

Announcing the release of two new texts on archaeometallurgy and
handheld XRF by

Dr. Aaron Shugar
<URL:http://artconservation.buffalostate.edu/faculty/aaron-n-shugar>
Associate Professor in Conservation Science at the Art
Conservation Department at Buffalo State.

    Shugar, A. and Simmons S. (2013)
    Archaeometallurgy in Mesoamerica: Current Approaches and New
    Perspectives
    <URL:http://www.upcolorado.com/book/New_Titles/Archaeometallurgy_in_Mesoamerica_cloth>

Presenting the latest in archaeometallurgical research in a
Mesoamerican context,Archaeometallurgy in Mesoamerica brings
together up-to-date research from the most notable scholars in the
field. These contributors analyze data from a variety of sites,
examining current approaches to the study of archaeometallurgy in
the region as well as new perspectives on the significance
metallurgy and metal objects had in the lives of its ancient
peoples.

    Shugar, A. and Mass J. (2012)
    Handheld XRF in Art and Archaeology
    <URL:http://upers.kuleuven.be/en/titel/9789058679079>

Over the last decade the technique of X-ray fluorescence has
evolved, from dependence on laboratory-based standalone units to
field use of portable and lightweight handheld devices. These
portable instruments have given researchers in art conservation and
archaeology the opportunity to study a broad range of materials with
greater accessibility and flexibility than ever before.

In addition, the low relative cost of handheld XRF has led many
museums, academic institutions, and cultural centres to invest in
the devices for routine materials analysis purposes. Although these
instruments often greatly simplify data collection, proper selection
of analysis conditions and interpretation of the data still require
an understanding of the principles of x-ray spectroscopy. These
instruments are often marketed and used as 'point and shoot'
solutions; however, their inexpert use can easily generate deceptive
or erroneous results.

This volume focuses specifically on the applications, possibilities,
and limitations of handheld XRF in art conservation and archaeology.
The papers deal with experimental methodologies, protocols, and
possibilities of handheld XRF analysis in dealing with the
complexity of materials encountered in this research.

Meredeth Lavelle
Program Manager
Art Conservation Department
Buffalo State College


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