Micro‐XRF analysis of silver decorations on Archaic helmets from Olympia

Researchers analyzing silver decorations from six Archaic bronze helmets at Olympia, Greece, found that all samples contained over 95% silver. Using quantitative micro-X-ray fluorescence (XRF), the study identified trace elements like gold, lead, and bismuth, which provided insights into the efficiency of ancient smelting techniques, the types of ore used, and potential geological origins of the silver. These findings offer a deeper understanding of the technological sophistication and material sourcing practices in Archaic Greece.

Grethe, R., Karydas, A. G., Kantarelou, V., & Zacharias, N. (2020). Micro‐XRF analysis of silver decorations on Archaic helmets from Olympia. Archaeometry, 62(5), 974–990. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/arcm.12561