Cultural implications of architectural mortar and plaster selection at Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Research at Mesa Verde National Park reveals a significant temporal trend in the selection of architectural mortar and plaster during the Pueblo III period, particularly at Spruce Tree House. By analyzing samples from kivas using advanced techniques such as XRD, ICP-MS, and SEM-EDS, scientists identified shifts in material choices that reflect cultural practices over time. The study also highlights preservation challenges, including gypsum accumulation on kiva walls. This work demonstrates how geochemical analysis can provide culturally significant insights into ancient building materials and their use.

Rumsey, S. D. (2007). Cultural implications of architectural mortar and plaster selection at Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado. University of Nevada, Las Vegas. https://doi.org/10.25669/5FYG-WTZN