Introduction to Laboratory Techniques

An archaeological laboratory is one of the most important parts of a project.  Individuals participating in an archaeological project should understand the working of a laboratory and should actively participate in processing the information/materials they have collected through the project.  The laboratory is closely related to field work and should receive support from all project participants.

Bibliography & Glossary (PDF)

Class Outline

1. An introduction to the laboratory as a part of an archaeological project.
   1. Review the activities completed in the laboratory


2. A review of laboratory personnel



3. Processing materials through an archaeological laboratory
   1. Receiving materials from the field
   2. Sorting and routing materials to the correct processing station
   3. Cleaning
   4. Cataloging
   5. Conservation
   6. Storage