by the Hungarian National Museum. 98 experts from 20 countries took part in this event, presentin... more by the Hungarian National Museum. 98 experts from 20 countries took part in this event, presenting 43 lectures and 62 posters. The present volume contains the scientific papers submitted for publication, altogether 36 communications.
2. In course of time, in different public collectionsin the first place, the Hungarian Geological... more 2. In course of time, in different public collectionsin the first place, the Hungarian Geological Surveyand in the possession of private mllectors important material was accumulated falling within the scope of the Lithotheca. On the foundation of the collection and ever since, numerous experts and amateurs have contributed to the comparative raw material collection by transferring at least part of their collections for the benefit of the Lithotheca. 3. Foreign colleagues taking part on the Conferenoe were asked to bring or to send samples from the most impoitant raw material typ"s in use in their countries. These samples were also incorporated into the collection.
Identification of exotic raw-materials discovered within the context of Late Glacial societies of... more Identification of exotic raw-materials discovered within the context of Late Glacial societies of the North European Plain is a crucial factor in discussion about far-reaching exchange systems of goods and ideas. The present paper considers the occurrence of obsidian finds on the Polish Lowlands, hundreds of kilometers away from its sources located south of the Carpathians. The focus is on chemical recognition and identification of a large and unique assemblage of obsidian artefacts from two Polish localities based on non-invasive Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis (PGAA). As a result, a clear connection of northern Polish obsidians with its outcrops located on the northern (Slovakian) fringe of the Tokaj Mountains was established that is the first detailed identification of obsidian finds from the territory of Poland ever. A review of Polish and Slovakian obsidian assemblages from the Late Glacial times and the importance of obsidian exchange and mobility for Late Palaeolithic societies of Central Europe are discussed supported by analytical results of PGAA.
On the territory Transcarpathian Ukraine, about 100 Palaeolithic localities are known up to our d... more On the territory Transcarpathian Ukraine, about 100 Palaeolithic localities are known up to our days. Most of them are surface finds. In spite of the rich archaeological heritage, the elaboration of the material, especially its petroarchaeological evaluation supported by professional scientific analytical methods, is in the initial phase as yet. The aim of the present study is to supply information on the lithic raw materials of the Palaeolithic settlements in Transcarpathian Ukraine, the detailed survey and description of the primary raw materials, their identification, description and terminology, as well as the outlining of the local raw material provinces and study of the distribution of the raw materials on archaeological sites. In the archaeological literature of Transcarpathian Ukraine, lithic raw materials are still described under incorrect petro-graphical terms. For example, for the raw material of Korolevo Palaeolithic site is, correctly speaking, hyaline dacite, and the " flints " of Beregovo region are indeed rocks of volcanic origin which have undergone metasomatic processes. Field survey for collecting geological samples localized 19 different raw material sources all of which yielded hard rocks with conchoidal fracture that are suitable for tool making with knapping. Out of the 19 raw material types 11 were actually found in archaeological assemblages of the studied area. The most popular raw materials of Transcarpathian Ukraine are the Korolevo hyaline dacite, Rokosovo obsidian, (Carpathian 3 type) and sili-ceous rhyolite tuff varieties (type I and II), siliceous tuffite (type I and II), siliceous and opalised rhyolite (type I and II) from the Beregovo Hills area, as well as silicified sandstone (type II) and the siliceous argillite. Certain types of potential raw materials were found in archaeological assemblages as yet. These are the Kriva limno-chalcedonite and limnoopalite, radiolarite of Svalyava type I, II and III, the siliceous limestone of Svalyava and Priborzhavske, and the hornfels of Suskovo. The paper also points out patterns in lithic raw material circulation in the prehistoric period of Transcarpathia. In the Palaeolithic, the settlement system and location of sites was largely dependent on the lithic sources. Altogether 9 types of rocks played important role: Korolevo hyaline dacite, the Carpathian 3 type obsidian from Rokosovo, 6 types of metasomatites of Beregovo Hills, and the silicified sandstone (type II). Upper Palaeolithic communities settled close to the outcrops of primary and secondary geological positions and this phenomenon is observable at each important Palaeolithic settlement. On the basis of the principal raw material circulation of the Palaeolithic three territorial groups have been formulated. These are named after the most abundant and used rock types of the given region. Three raw material regions are recognized in Transcarpathia: volcanic, metasomatic, and sedimentary. Furthermore, sub-regions were also established in the volcanic region (Rokosovo-Maliy Rakovets and Korolevo-Veryatsa sub-regions) and in the metasomatic region (Beregovo, Muzhiyevo and Bene-Kvasovo sub-regions).
beyond tribal/cultural boundaries over large distances. The fineware of artistic beauty and high ... more beyond tribal/cultural boundaries over large distances. The fineware of artistic beauty and high craftsmanship of the Middle Neolithic Bükk culture could be an exception to that rule, since the known distribution of the Bükk culture fine pottery extends far over the territory occupied by the cultural group. Our investigations focused on some basic questions of fine Bükk pottery. The subjects of the research were ceramic finds and comparative raw material samples from some important sites of the Bükk culture (Aggtelek-Baradla cave, Borsod (Edelény)-Derékegyháza, Felsővadász-Várdomb and Sajószentpéter-Kövecses). Our aim was to find out whether special raw materials were selected and/or individual recipes were applied for the production of fine Bükk pottery, and if it is possible to fingerprint Bükk wares by archaeometrical methods, which will be of essential help in the study of Bükk 'exports', established by stylistic/archaeological methods. The framework of the archaeometrical study involved polarising microscopic petrographic observations, mineralogical characterisation by XRD method and instrumental geochemical investigation using XRF. Although the investigated sample collection was limited and covered only few sites, our research yielded the first archaeometrical data on high quality Bükk finewares. It became clear that the representative fine ceramic fragments can be clearly distinguished from both the coarser ware and some of the comparative local sediments. In addition, the complete fine-ware collection shows inhomogeneity (two quality types) concerning its raw material. The results of our complex petro-mineralogical and geochemical investigation provided basic knowledge for the further archaeometrical research of Bükk finewares. In addition, it is very probable that the determination of the provenance and the description of the making technology can be possible.
Radiolaria, unicellular organisms with siliceous skeletal elements. Radiolarians as a taxon have ... more Radiolaria, unicellular organisms with siliceous skeletal elements. Radiolarians as a taxon have a long range, they are known since the Palaeozoic till recent times. In rock-forming quantities, however, they are typical of the Mesozoic period. As raw material for chipped stone tools, radiolarite is frequently used. On the average, it is the most frequent component of lithic inventories in Hungary and even more, in Transdanubia. There are macroscopically separable types among the radiolarites, mainly on the basis of colour and other physical properties. They are currently named after the most characteristic geological source locality. It remains a question though, how much the 'raw material types' represent really different sources; how variability within each source is reflected in the archaeological lithic material and how much we can separate regional varieties, supported by objective methods of analysis. It is also imperative to know radiolarites from sources outside the present territory of Hungary that may have played a role in the raw material supply and 'fingerprint' the individual sources and regions. One of the basic aims of the current TéT project was to get more information on these issues. The paper presented will survey current state of art in respect of radiolarite sourcing studies in the Carpathian Basin as a result of the Croatian-Hungarian collaboration project. As a result, new analytical data and characteristic major element distributions of radiolarite raw materials from Gerecse, Bakony and Mecsek mountains are published. By the comparison with chemical data on archaeological radiolarite artefacts from sites in Hungary, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, preliminary suggestions for the provenance of archaeological radiolarites are provided. Stone tools of sites in the Gerecse and at Nadap are possibly originated from the Gerecse source. Radiolarite artefacts of site Vörs may be related to raw material of Bakony. Archaeological finds of Szálka site have similar chemical character to the Mecsek raw materials. Chert artefacts of Fajsz can not be directly connected neither to the Mecsek nor to the Gerecse source. Chipped stone tools from Croatia and Bosnia can not be compared chemically to the radiolarite types of Hungary. However, the carbonate-free Bosnian radiolarite seems to serve as a potential “new” raw material source.
Ariuşd (Erősd) is the eponym site of the Copper Age Ariuşd group. The systematic investigation of... more Ariuşd (Erősd) is the eponym site of the Copper Age Ariuşd group. The systematic investigation of the site
has begun over a hundred years ago. Recent archaeological studies could clarify the layer sequence and
the artefacts of the site, especially the pottery finds. Our current paper is aiming at presenting the chipped
lithic industry, the largest of its kind within the Ariuşd group. Though this study is a work in progress with
several open questions, we hope to contribute to a more profound knowledge on the material culture of the
Ariuşd group.
Recently, several archaeometrical projects have been started on the prehistoric collection of the... more Recently, several archaeometrical projects have been started on the prehistoric collection of the Hungarian National Museum. Among the analytical methods applied, non-destructive prompt gamma activation analysis has a special importance. We have also tested the potential of this method on chipped stone tools, with the aim of determining their exact provenance. On the basis of major and trace element components, characterizations of stone tools and their raw materials—silicites (flint, chert, radiolarite and hornstone) as well as volcanites (felsitic porphyry and obsidian)—were performed. We discuss some important results concerning each group, as case studies. Compiling the data set of different PGAA analysis series, compositions of 110 samples are reported, including 76 archaeological pieces. In the future, we plan to extend the number of investigated objects in each class.
As a continuation of previous research carried out by the authors, further characterisation and p... more As a continuation of previous research carried out by the authors, further characterisation and provenancing of Middle Neolithic Bükk pottery (NE Hungary) were undertaken for the purposes of this study. In the context of the current project, a systematic and representative study of Bükk pottery products was initiated at the core of the tribal area. Our basic aim was to compare Bükk fine ware from different sites and to identify local or regional raw materials and production technology. In addition, characteristic incrustation of this fine ware is currently under observation.
Comparative raw material collections are an
essential part of the tools in the service of
modern,... more Comparative raw material collections are an essential part of the tools in the service of modern, scientifically supported archaeology imperative for the challenges of 21st century archaeology. It is, however, not enough to carry on regional initiatives, it is important to know about each other's efforts. Internet-based modern technology can help us being in permanent contact, much more than we are now. Of course I cannot pretend that this list is complete; my means and time for constructing it being equally limited. I am most grateful for the people who helped me to collect information and hope I did not misunderstand their points.
by the Hungarian National Museum. 98 experts from 20 countries took part in this event, presentin... more by the Hungarian National Museum. 98 experts from 20 countries took part in this event, presenting 43 lectures and 62 posters. The present volume contains the scientific papers submitted for publication, altogether 36 communications.
2. In course of time, in different public collectionsin the first place, the Hungarian Geological... more 2. In course of time, in different public collectionsin the first place, the Hungarian Geological Surveyand in the possession of private mllectors important material was accumulated falling within the scope of the Lithotheca. On the foundation of the collection and ever since, numerous experts and amateurs have contributed to the comparative raw material collection by transferring at least part of their collections for the benefit of the Lithotheca. 3. Foreign colleagues taking part on the Conferenoe were asked to bring or to send samples from the most impoitant raw material typ"s in use in their countries. These samples were also incorporated into the collection.
Identification of exotic raw-materials discovered within the context of Late Glacial societies of... more Identification of exotic raw-materials discovered within the context of Late Glacial societies of the North European Plain is a crucial factor in discussion about far-reaching exchange systems of goods and ideas. The present paper considers the occurrence of obsidian finds on the Polish Lowlands, hundreds of kilometers away from its sources located south of the Carpathians. The focus is on chemical recognition and identification of a large and unique assemblage of obsidian artefacts from two Polish localities based on non-invasive Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis (PGAA). As a result, a clear connection of northern Polish obsidians with its outcrops located on the northern (Slovakian) fringe of the Tokaj Mountains was established that is the first detailed identification of obsidian finds from the territory of Poland ever. A review of Polish and Slovakian obsidian assemblages from the Late Glacial times and the importance of obsidian exchange and mobility for Late Palaeolithic societies of Central Europe are discussed supported by analytical results of PGAA.
On the territory Transcarpathian Ukraine, about 100 Palaeolithic localities are known up to our d... more On the territory Transcarpathian Ukraine, about 100 Palaeolithic localities are known up to our days. Most of them are surface finds. In spite of the rich archaeological heritage, the elaboration of the material, especially its petroarchaeological evaluation supported by professional scientific analytical methods, is in the initial phase as yet. The aim of the present study is to supply information on the lithic raw materials of the Palaeolithic settlements in Transcarpathian Ukraine, the detailed survey and description of the primary raw materials, their identification, description and terminology, as well as the outlining of the local raw material provinces and study of the distribution of the raw materials on archaeological sites. In the archaeological literature of Transcarpathian Ukraine, lithic raw materials are still described under incorrect petro-graphical terms. For example, for the raw material of Korolevo Palaeolithic site is, correctly speaking, hyaline dacite, and the " flints " of Beregovo region are indeed rocks of volcanic origin which have undergone metasomatic processes. Field survey for collecting geological samples localized 19 different raw material sources all of which yielded hard rocks with conchoidal fracture that are suitable for tool making with knapping. Out of the 19 raw material types 11 were actually found in archaeological assemblages of the studied area. The most popular raw materials of Transcarpathian Ukraine are the Korolevo hyaline dacite, Rokosovo obsidian, (Carpathian 3 type) and sili-ceous rhyolite tuff varieties (type I and II), siliceous tuffite (type I and II), siliceous and opalised rhyolite (type I and II) from the Beregovo Hills area, as well as silicified sandstone (type II) and the siliceous argillite. Certain types of potential raw materials were found in archaeological assemblages as yet. These are the Kriva limno-chalcedonite and limnoopalite, radiolarite of Svalyava type I, II and III, the siliceous limestone of Svalyava and Priborzhavske, and the hornfels of Suskovo. The paper also points out patterns in lithic raw material circulation in the prehistoric period of Transcarpathia. In the Palaeolithic, the settlement system and location of sites was largely dependent on the lithic sources. Altogether 9 types of rocks played important role: Korolevo hyaline dacite, the Carpathian 3 type obsidian from Rokosovo, 6 types of metasomatites of Beregovo Hills, and the silicified sandstone (type II). Upper Palaeolithic communities settled close to the outcrops of primary and secondary geological positions and this phenomenon is observable at each important Palaeolithic settlement. On the basis of the principal raw material circulation of the Palaeolithic three territorial groups have been formulated. These are named after the most abundant and used rock types of the given region. Three raw material regions are recognized in Transcarpathia: volcanic, metasomatic, and sedimentary. Furthermore, sub-regions were also established in the volcanic region (Rokosovo-Maliy Rakovets and Korolevo-Veryatsa sub-regions) and in the metasomatic region (Beregovo, Muzhiyevo and Bene-Kvasovo sub-regions).
beyond tribal/cultural boundaries over large distances. The fineware of artistic beauty and high ... more beyond tribal/cultural boundaries over large distances. The fineware of artistic beauty and high craftsmanship of the Middle Neolithic Bükk culture could be an exception to that rule, since the known distribution of the Bükk culture fine pottery extends far over the territory occupied by the cultural group. Our investigations focused on some basic questions of fine Bükk pottery. The subjects of the research were ceramic finds and comparative raw material samples from some important sites of the Bükk culture (Aggtelek-Baradla cave, Borsod (Edelény)-Derékegyháza, Felsővadász-Várdomb and Sajószentpéter-Kövecses). Our aim was to find out whether special raw materials were selected and/or individual recipes were applied for the production of fine Bükk pottery, and if it is possible to fingerprint Bükk wares by archaeometrical methods, which will be of essential help in the study of Bükk 'exports', established by stylistic/archaeological methods. The framework of the archaeometrical study involved polarising microscopic petrographic observations, mineralogical characterisation by XRD method and instrumental geochemical investigation using XRF. Although the investigated sample collection was limited and covered only few sites, our research yielded the first archaeometrical data on high quality Bükk finewares. It became clear that the representative fine ceramic fragments can be clearly distinguished from both the coarser ware and some of the comparative local sediments. In addition, the complete fine-ware collection shows inhomogeneity (two quality types) concerning its raw material. The results of our complex petro-mineralogical and geochemical investigation provided basic knowledge for the further archaeometrical research of Bükk finewares. In addition, it is very probable that the determination of the provenance and the description of the making technology can be possible.
Radiolaria, unicellular organisms with siliceous skeletal elements. Radiolarians as a taxon have ... more Radiolaria, unicellular organisms with siliceous skeletal elements. Radiolarians as a taxon have a long range, they are known since the Palaeozoic till recent times. In rock-forming quantities, however, they are typical of the Mesozoic period. As raw material for chipped stone tools, radiolarite is frequently used. On the average, it is the most frequent component of lithic inventories in Hungary and even more, in Transdanubia. There are macroscopically separable types among the radiolarites, mainly on the basis of colour and other physical properties. They are currently named after the most characteristic geological source locality. It remains a question though, how much the 'raw material types' represent really different sources; how variability within each source is reflected in the archaeological lithic material and how much we can separate regional varieties, supported by objective methods of analysis. It is also imperative to know radiolarites from sources outside the present territory of Hungary that may have played a role in the raw material supply and 'fingerprint' the individual sources and regions. One of the basic aims of the current TéT project was to get more information on these issues. The paper presented will survey current state of art in respect of radiolarite sourcing studies in the Carpathian Basin as a result of the Croatian-Hungarian collaboration project. As a result, new analytical data and characteristic major element distributions of radiolarite raw materials from Gerecse, Bakony and Mecsek mountains are published. By the comparison with chemical data on archaeological radiolarite artefacts from sites in Hungary, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, preliminary suggestions for the provenance of archaeological radiolarites are provided. Stone tools of sites in the Gerecse and at Nadap are possibly originated from the Gerecse source. Radiolarite artefacts of site Vörs may be related to raw material of Bakony. Archaeological finds of Szálka site have similar chemical character to the Mecsek raw materials. Chert artefacts of Fajsz can not be directly connected neither to the Mecsek nor to the Gerecse source. Chipped stone tools from Croatia and Bosnia can not be compared chemically to the radiolarite types of Hungary. However, the carbonate-free Bosnian radiolarite seems to serve as a potential “new” raw material source.
Ariuşd (Erősd) is the eponym site of the Copper Age Ariuşd group. The systematic investigation of... more Ariuşd (Erősd) is the eponym site of the Copper Age Ariuşd group. The systematic investigation of the site
has begun over a hundred years ago. Recent archaeological studies could clarify the layer sequence and
the artefacts of the site, especially the pottery finds. Our current paper is aiming at presenting the chipped
lithic industry, the largest of its kind within the Ariuşd group. Though this study is a work in progress with
several open questions, we hope to contribute to a more profound knowledge on the material culture of the
Ariuşd group.
Recently, several archaeometrical projects have been started on the prehistoric collection of the... more Recently, several archaeometrical projects have been started on the prehistoric collection of the Hungarian National Museum. Among the analytical methods applied, non-destructive prompt gamma activation analysis has a special importance. We have also tested the potential of this method on chipped stone tools, with the aim of determining their exact provenance. On the basis of major and trace element components, characterizations of stone tools and their raw materials—silicites (flint, chert, radiolarite and hornstone) as well as volcanites (felsitic porphyry and obsidian)—were performed. We discuss some important results concerning each group, as case studies. Compiling the data set of different PGAA analysis series, compositions of 110 samples are reported, including 76 archaeological pieces. In the future, we plan to extend the number of investigated objects in each class.
As a continuation of previous research carried out by the authors, further characterisation and p... more As a continuation of previous research carried out by the authors, further characterisation and provenancing of Middle Neolithic Bükk pottery (NE Hungary) were undertaken for the purposes of this study. In the context of the current project, a systematic and representative study of Bükk pottery products was initiated at the core of the tribal area. Our basic aim was to compare Bükk fine ware from different sites and to identify local or regional raw materials and production technology. In addition, characteristic incrustation of this fine ware is currently under observation.
Comparative raw material collections are an
essential part of the tools in the service of
modern,... more Comparative raw material collections are an essential part of the tools in the service of modern, scientifically supported archaeology imperative for the challenges of 21st century archaeology. It is, however, not enough to carry on regional initiatives, it is important to know about each other's efforts. Internet-based modern technology can help us being in permanent contact, much more than we are now. Of course I cannot pretend that this list is complete; my means and time for constructing it being equally limited. I am most grateful for the people who helped me to collect information and hope I did not misunderstand their points.
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Our investigations focused on some basic questions of fine Bükk pottery. The subjects of the research were ceramic finds and comparative raw material samples from some important sites of the Bükk culture (Aggtelek-Baradla cave, Borsod (Edelény)-Derékegyháza, Felsővadász-Várdomb and Sajószentpéter-Kövecses). Our aim was to find out whether special raw materials were selected and/or individual recipes were applied for the production of fine Bükk pottery, and if it is possible to fingerprint Bükk wares by archaeometrical methods,
which will be of essential help in the study of Bükk 'exports', established by stylistic/archaeological methods. The framework of the archaeometrical study involved polarising microscopic petrographic observations, mineralogical characterisation by XRD method and instrumental geochemical investigation using XRF.
Although the investigated sample collection was limited and covered only few sites, our research yielded the first archaeometrical data on high quality Bükk finewares. It became clear that the representative fine ceramic
fragments can be clearly distinguished from both the coarser ware and some of the comparative local sediments.
In addition, the complete fine-ware collection shows inhomogeneity (two quality types) concerning its raw material. The results of our complex petro-mineralogical and geochemical investigation provided basic knowledge for the further archaeometrical research of Bükk finewares. In addition, it is very probable that the determination of the provenance and the description of the making technology can be possible.
As raw material for chipped stone tools, radiolarite is frequently used. On the average, it is the most frequent
component of lithic inventories in Hungary and even more, in Transdanubia. There are macroscopically separable types among the radiolarites, mainly on the basis of colour and other physical properties. They are currently named after the most characteristic geological source locality. It remains a question though, how much the 'raw material types' represent really different sources; how variability within each source is reflected
in the archaeological lithic material and how much we can separate regional varieties, supported by objective methods of analysis. It is also imperative to know radiolarites from sources outside the present territory of Hungary that may have played a role in the raw material supply and 'fingerprint' the individual sources and regions.
One of the basic aims of the current TéT project was to get more information on these issues. The paper presented will survey current state of art in respect of radiolarite sourcing studies in the Carpathian Basin as a result of the Croatian-Hungarian collaboration project. As a result, new analytical data and characteristic major element distributions of radiolarite raw materials from Gerecse, Bakony and Mecsek mountains are published. By the comparison with chemical data on archaeological radiolarite artefacts from sites in Hungary, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, preliminary suggestions for the provenance of archaeological radiolarites
are provided. Stone tools of sites in the Gerecse and at Nadap are possibly originated from the Gerecse source.
Radiolarite artefacts of site Vörs may be related to raw material of Bakony. Archaeological finds of Szálka site have similar chemical character to the Mecsek raw materials. Chert artefacts of Fajsz can not be directly connected neither to the Mecsek nor to the Gerecse source. Chipped stone tools from Croatia and Bosnia can not be compared chemically to the radiolarite types of Hungary. However, the carbonate-free Bosnian radiolarite seems to serve as a potential “new” raw material source.
has begun over a hundred years ago. Recent archaeological studies could clarify the layer sequence and
the artefacts of the site, especially the pottery finds. Our current paper is aiming at presenting the chipped
lithic industry, the largest of its kind within the Ariuşd group. Though this study is a work in progress with
several open questions, we hope to contribute to a more profound knowledge on the material culture of the
Ariuşd group.
essential part of the tools in the service of
modern, scientifically supported archaeology
imperative for the challenges of 21st century
archaeology. It is, however, not enough to carry
on regional initiatives, it is important to know
about each other's efforts. Internet-based modern
technology can help us being in permanent
contact, much more than we are now.
Of course I cannot pretend that this list is
complete; my means and time for constructing it
being equally limited. I am most grateful for the
people who helped me to collect information and
hope I did not misunderstand their points.
Our investigations focused on some basic questions of fine Bükk pottery. The subjects of the research were ceramic finds and comparative raw material samples from some important sites of the Bükk culture (Aggtelek-Baradla cave, Borsod (Edelény)-Derékegyháza, Felsővadász-Várdomb and Sajószentpéter-Kövecses). Our aim was to find out whether special raw materials were selected and/or individual recipes were applied for the production of fine Bükk pottery, and if it is possible to fingerprint Bükk wares by archaeometrical methods,
which will be of essential help in the study of Bükk 'exports', established by stylistic/archaeological methods. The framework of the archaeometrical study involved polarising microscopic petrographic observations, mineralogical characterisation by XRD method and instrumental geochemical investigation using XRF.
Although the investigated sample collection was limited and covered only few sites, our research yielded the first archaeometrical data on high quality Bükk finewares. It became clear that the representative fine ceramic
fragments can be clearly distinguished from both the coarser ware and some of the comparative local sediments.
In addition, the complete fine-ware collection shows inhomogeneity (two quality types) concerning its raw material. The results of our complex petro-mineralogical and geochemical investigation provided basic knowledge for the further archaeometrical research of Bükk finewares. In addition, it is very probable that the determination of the provenance and the description of the making technology can be possible.
As raw material for chipped stone tools, radiolarite is frequently used. On the average, it is the most frequent
component of lithic inventories in Hungary and even more, in Transdanubia. There are macroscopically separable types among the radiolarites, mainly on the basis of colour and other physical properties. They are currently named after the most characteristic geological source locality. It remains a question though, how much the 'raw material types' represent really different sources; how variability within each source is reflected
in the archaeological lithic material and how much we can separate regional varieties, supported by objective methods of analysis. It is also imperative to know radiolarites from sources outside the present territory of Hungary that may have played a role in the raw material supply and 'fingerprint' the individual sources and regions.
One of the basic aims of the current TéT project was to get more information on these issues. The paper presented will survey current state of art in respect of radiolarite sourcing studies in the Carpathian Basin as a result of the Croatian-Hungarian collaboration project. As a result, new analytical data and characteristic major element distributions of radiolarite raw materials from Gerecse, Bakony and Mecsek mountains are published. By the comparison with chemical data on archaeological radiolarite artefacts from sites in Hungary, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, preliminary suggestions for the provenance of archaeological radiolarites
are provided. Stone tools of sites in the Gerecse and at Nadap are possibly originated from the Gerecse source.
Radiolarite artefacts of site Vörs may be related to raw material of Bakony. Archaeological finds of Szálka site have similar chemical character to the Mecsek raw materials. Chert artefacts of Fajsz can not be directly connected neither to the Mecsek nor to the Gerecse source. Chipped stone tools from Croatia and Bosnia can not be compared chemically to the radiolarite types of Hungary. However, the carbonate-free Bosnian radiolarite seems to serve as a potential “new” raw material source.
has begun over a hundred years ago. Recent archaeological studies could clarify the layer sequence and
the artefacts of the site, especially the pottery finds. Our current paper is aiming at presenting the chipped
lithic industry, the largest of its kind within the Ariuşd group. Though this study is a work in progress with
several open questions, we hope to contribute to a more profound knowledge on the material culture of the
Ariuşd group.
essential part of the tools in the service of
modern, scientifically supported archaeology
imperative for the challenges of 21st century
archaeology. It is, however, not enough to carry
on regional initiatives, it is important to know
about each other's efforts. Internet-based modern
technology can help us being in permanent
contact, much more than we are now.
Of course I cannot pretend that this list is
complete; my means and time for constructing it
being equally limited. I am most grateful for the
people who helped me to collect information and
hope I did not misunderstand their points.