Enamels: materials, deterioration and analysis

Analyses are given of British Iron Age and Dark Age enamels; both contain substantial lead oxide percentages, higher in the Dark Age pieces, while some are also low in sodium (1%). Reds contain copper and yellows tin (lead-tin oxide=colorant); contemporary Dark Age yellow beads and enamels are of the same composition. Weathering produces confusing colored products; some reds go green, some go yellow, and yellow enamels may retain their color. X-ray diffraction could identify some colorant remaining even in weathered enamel.