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This book presents a systematic look at the utilization of rock and mineral materials from prehistoric times through the 17th century ACE. The coverage is nearly world-wide and gives more than 800 references. Among the numerous illustrations are maps showing the location of major rock, mineral, and ore deposits, as well as photos and drawings of minerals, artifacts, statues, and large structures. Major portions of this book are based on 34 years of experience the author has doing geoarchaeology, archaeomineralogy, and archaeometallurgy in more than a dozen countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.
Introduction.- Properties of Minerals.- Exploitation of Mineral and Rock Raw Materials.- Lithic Materials.- Gemstones, Sealstones, and Ceremonial Stones.- Soft Stones and Other Carvable Materials.- Metals and Related Ore Minerals.- Ceramic Raw Materials.- Pigments and Colorants.- Abrasives, Salt, Shells, and Miscellaneous Geologic Raw Materials.- Building, Monumental, and Statuary Materials.- References.- Glossary.- Indices.
