1: Good to see archaeological science is alive and well
It is good to see that archaeological science is alive and well. Given the wave of post-processualism that is ever so popular, Plenum Press should be thanked for publishing no-nonsense archaeological method books like these.The big gives a nice overview of the state of archaeological obsidian studies. In part due to advances in analytical equipment, in part given the fact we know a lot more than the late 1970s, this is an excellent sequel to ADVANCES IN OBSIDIAN GLASS STUDIES. The book contains a nice overview of obsidian studies from an analytical perspective and a geographic perspective. Techniques such as x-ray fluorescence, neutron activation analysis, and proton induced x-ray emission are nicely introduced to the reader. The state of obsidian studies is reviewed for most of the Old and New World. The only regions that seem to be missing are Japan and the Near East. The chapter by Glascock et al. is a nice overview of some common multivariate statistical techniques used by archaeologists. A fantastic book for archaeological scientists, geologists, or anyone else interested in obsidian studies.
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