Morphology Of Ancient Potteries Using X-Ray Diffraction Analysis And X-Ray Fluorescence In Sistan Plain, Eastern Iran

Research reveals distinct morphological and compositional differences in pottery from the Sistan plain, Eastern Iran, spanning prehistoric to Islamic eras. Using semi-quantitative X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, 52 pottery samples—collected from sites like Shahr-e Sukhteh, Dahaneh Gholaman, and Rostam castle—demonstrated unique chemical signatures compared to other regions in Sistan. Notably, Islamic-era glazed pottery exhibited silica compounds, gypsum, and aluminosilicate, highlighting the continuity of local technological practices and trade networks. The study underscores the advanced skill and knowledge of ancient potters, whose diverse production persisted from prehistory through the Islamic period, reflecting Sistan's cultural significance as a crossroads between South Asia, Mesopotamia, and Central Asia.

Pourzarghan, V., Sarhaddi-Dadian, H., & Ramli, Z. (2017). Morphology Of Ancient Potteries Using X-Ray Diffraction Analysis And X-Ray Fluorescence In Sistan Plain, Eastern Iran. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.824733