Tracing Raw Material Sources of Prehistoric Stone Artefacts by Non-Invasive Techniques: The Case of the Early Bronze Age (3rd Mill. BCE) Site of Vathy, Astypalaia, Greece

Recent findings of archaeological research in the Vathy gulf area, Astypalaia Island, indicate its continuous habitation since prehistoric times, most importantly transitional period from Final Neolithic to Early Bronze Age (late 4th/early 3rd millennium BC). The evaluation stone artefacts using non-invasive analytical methods (Near Infrared Spectroscopy—NIR), combination with mineral-petrographic characterization main lithological formations island, is expected provide important information about raw material procurement and possible exchange networks. geological study island combined applied samples led identification both local allogenic materials. locations sources were established origin materials was estimated. made geo-materials consist mainly calcitic sandstone, shale, marl, limestone/marble, comprising largest part as well pumice volcanic rocks varying chemical composition. By means a portable microscope NIR spectroscopy, we further able identify including chalcedony, mica schist, bauxite meta-bauxite, steatite, paragonite. Based on mineralogical petrographic artefacts, first attempt evaluate potential intra-island modes exploitation.