Tracing copper bell trade patterns in the greater Southwest using the Los Alamos nuclear microprobe

Abstract The Los Alamos nuclear microprobe has been used for trace-element analysis of cast copper crotals (bells) by proton induced X-ray emmission (PIXE). Small spot sizes were used because the copper bells have mineral inclusions and intercrystalline grain boundaries on the order of 40 μm. Information on the trace element metallurgy of copper bell castings is important for the establishment of early trade patterns. Results show that the PIXE technique has potential for tracking copper bell trade patterns using trace-elements at the 5 μg g level.