Machine learning approach to Nemrut Dağ and Bingöl obsidians: insights from Tūlūl al Baqarat obsidian prehistoric tools (Iraq, IV millennium BC) and volcanological implications

A machine learning approach has identified Nemrut Dağ stratovolcano in southeastern Turkey as the likely source of nine obsidian blades from the archaeological site of Tūlūl al Baqarat (Iraq), dating back to the 4th millennium BC. The study, which employed non-invasive chemical analysis and geochemical comparisons, found that these tools exhibit a unique peraluminous rhyolite composition with high zirconium content, distinguishing them from other known Turkish and Armenian obsidian sources. This discovery supports the hypothesis of extensive trade networks along the Tigris River during prehistoric times, facilitating exchange between Turkey and the South Near East as early as 4000 years ago.

Vaggelli, G., Borghi, A., Cossio, R., Ghignone, S., & Lippolis, C. (2025). Machine learning approach to Nemrut Dağ and Bingöl obsidians: insights from Tūlūl al Baqarat obsidian prehistoric tools (Iraq, IV millennium BC) and volcanological implications. Annals of Geophysics, 69(3), SY328. https://doi.org/10.4401/ag-9369