Connacht Archaeological Services

Specialist Analytical Archaeological Services

We provide specialist advice to the archaeological community on various aspects of archaeological materials, such as iron slags, crucibles, moulds, metallic artefacts etc. To date we have compiled reports on metalworking evidence from a wide range of archaeological sites excavated on the N5, N26, M3 (M3motorway.ie/Archaeology) & M8 road schemes. We have built up a good deal of new knowledge and information on various aspects of the development of early metal-working technology.

• Iron Slag
  Crucibles & Moulds
  Glass-working
  Lead, Silver & Gold working
  

• On-site advice on excavation and sampling methodology for metallurgical residues

• Workshops & seminars on identification and recording of materials associated with various metallurgical processes.

• Initial Assessment and Characterization of Metallurgical Residues, Crucibles & Technology

• Assistance with formulating research strategies for metallurgical sites & material.

 

• Chemical & mineral analysis of slag composition

• Surface Analysis of Artefact Compositions & characterization of possible alloys/raw materials & methodology used for manufacture.

Relevant Qualifications & Previous Experience:
MSc Technology & Analysis of Archaeological Materials
Institute of Archaeology, University College London. 2004-2005

Thesis on Analysis of Viking crucibles associated with silver working from Sigtuna in Sweden & Fyrkat in Denmark

Report on Analysis of Early Medieval Copper Alloy neck-ring
from Ratoath, Co, Meath as part of MSc module on metallic artifacts.

10 years experience working in Irish field archaeology
3 years experience teaching on module ‘Science of Archaeological Materials’ at Sligo IT

Previous Reports:
Report on Iron-working residues from Lowpark, Co. Mayo excavated in advance of N5 Charlestown Bypass
on behalf of Richard Gillespie, Mayo County Council & the NRA

Report on Iron-working residues from Tonybaun, Co, Mayo, excavated in advance of N26 Ballina-Bohola Stage 1
on behalf of Joanna Nolan, Mayo County Council & the NRA