Ref ID:	19713
Ref Type:	BAR Section
Authors:	Coote, Vanessa J.
Title:	Ancient base metal mines and mining in southwest Thailand
Date:	1990
Source:	Southeast Asian Archaeology 1986: Proceedings of the 1st Conference of the Association of Southeast Asian Archaeologists in Western Europe
Place of Publication:	Oxford
Publisher:	British Archaeological Reports
Abstract:	The widespread use of lead and tin in the ancient bronzes of Southeast Asia makes the study of lead isotopes and trace elements in ores and artifacts a feasible method of identifying ore sources. Primary tin depostis in Western Thailand are both numerous and variable in form and trace element chemistry and at least ten different trace element assemblages have been recognised throughout the region. The study of lead isotope ratios as a means of provenancing has been used with some success in other areas. This paper attempts to show how ore geology can aid in the recognition and study of ancient mining and smelting sites to reveal much about the diffusion of technology and the creation of trade centers and networks as a result of the socio-political and economic changes wrought by an increasing demand for metals and metal trade goods.
Date Created:	2/18/2001
Editors:	Glover, Ian C. Glover, Emily
Volume:	561
Page Start:	131
Page End:	138
Series Title:	BAR International Series