Complementary Compositional Analysis of Formative Period Ceramics from the Teotihuacan Valley

A pilot study using multi-method analysis reveals that ceramics from the Formative Period (1500/1400 BC–AD 150) in the Teotihuacan Valley were primarily made from local raw materials, distinct from later Postclassic materials. The research employed instrumental neutron activation analysis, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, thermal ionization mass spectrometry, and petrography to examine compositional differences. Findings suggest limited inter-village interaction during this period, with one settlement showing evidence of ceramics sourced from distinct raw materials. This study demonstrates the potential of complementary analytical methods to extract deeper anthropological insights from material culture.

ALEX, B. A., NICHOLS, D. L., & GLASCOCK, M. D. (2012). COMPLEMENTARY COMPOSITIONAL ANALYSIS OF FORMATIVE PERIOD CERAMICS FROM THE TEOTIHUACAN VALLEY. Archaeometry, 54(5), 821–834. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1475-4754.2011.00652.x