Goldsmithing traditions and innovations in colonial Colombia: an analytical study of crucibles from Santa Cruz de Mompox

Analytical characterization of five crucibles from Santa Cruz de Mompox, Colombia, reveals evidence of local crucible production and metallurgical practices involving unrefined gold dust, tumbaga (gold-copper-silver alloys), and silver, suggesting both illegal activities and continuities with pre-Columbian traditions. The study highlights the Spanish-led introduction of silver in northern Colombia while illustrating complex social and economic negotiations among indigenous peoples, mestizos, and Spaniards during colonial times. This research approach combines metallurgical analysis with archival evidence to shed light on the dynamic interactions between native metalworking traditions and new Spanish technologies.

Martinón-Torres, M., Lobo Guerrero Arenas, J., Veronesi, U., & White, H. (2018). Goldsmithing traditions and innovations in colonial Colombia: an analytical study of crucibles from Santa Cruz de Mompox. Post-Medieval Archaeology, 52(2), 147–169. https://doi.org/10.1080/00794236.2018.1515384