Focus
Handheld XRF
Authentication & Conservation
Metals & Alloys
Nondestructive In-situ Testing

Archaeometallurgy involves the compositional analysis of archaeological and other historically and/or artistically significant metal objects. Primary metals and alloys can be identified along with their relative concentrations utilizing XRF. Handheld XRF is ideally suited for in-situ, non-destructive measurements of these valuable objects.

This surface analysis can perform major, minor and trace analysis to confirm metal and alloy identification without damaging the material. Such information helps to accurately describe the bulk metal, inlay, plating and/or other coatings. The identity and/or concentration of alloys and metals helps determine the composition, origin, technology, authenticity and value of an archaeometallurgical object, and aids in optimal restoration and preservation. Trace element analysis can help in the discovery of the provenance of an object or the metals it was made of. A series of related objects can be analyzed to learn patterns of alloy and specific metal use.

Characterization of a Private Bowie Knife Collection

Bowie Knives, named after American pioneer James Bowie (1796-1836), became a hunter's mainstay on the early American frontier. Bowies, traditionally 10-15 inch in length, have single-edged steel blades with concave, tapered points and large handles for a firm grip. Although still used for hunting, Bowie Knives are a favorite of collectors for their craftsmanship, decoration, value, and historical significance.

Bowie Knife 1

Bowie Knife 1 consists of a steel, curve-end blade that appears to be soldered to the curved crosspiece. The hilt is made of metal and a stone-like material with a carved eagle as the end bolster. This knife was made in Mexico; the name "P. Tirrez" is carved on the blade just above the cross section. Knife weight: 0.75 lbs; Knife length: 12 1/16th in

Bowie Knife 2

Bowie Knife 2 consists of a steel, curve-end and split blade. It appears to have a full tang with some splitting of the multi-colored wooden hilt. The crosspiece is rectangular with a high polish similar to the flat end-bolster piece. The "pommel" is a pointed piece of plastic. This knife was made in Pakistan. Knife weight: 13/16 lb; Knife length: 12 14/16ths in

Bowie Knife 3

Bowie Knife 3 is a Tomahawk XL-216 made with "Stainless China": This blade has a curved tip and serrated spine. The oval cross piece is also serrated. It appears to have a full tang with a heavy wooden hilt secured with rivets. It was likely assembled in the United States. Knife weight: 9/16th lb; Knife length: 13 13/26th in; Blade length: 7 9/16th in

Curios:

Why did David Robert Jones change his name to David Bowie?
When Crocodile Dundee responded to a mugger who was armed with a knife and remarked, "That's not a knife; … pause … that's a knife", what kind of knife did he pull out?
What kind of knife did Quincey Morris use to kill Dracula?