Stonehenge rhyolitic bluestone sources and the application of zircon chemistry as a new tool for provenancing rhyolitic lithics

摘要: Abstract The source of the bluestones at Stonehenge has long been debated, and while there is general consensus that so-called spotted dolerites are derived from a relatively small number outcrops exposed in highest parts Mynydd Preseli, southwest Wales rhyolitic component attracted little detailed attention. This largely because unlike uniqueness spots coarser grained doleritic rocks, rhyolites fine-grained character lack any obvious distinctiveness, especially hand specimen. makes their provenancing difficult. A recent study, however, suggested was close lithological similarity between informally-termed ‘rhyolite with fabric’ bluestone rocks Ordovician Fishguard Volcanic Group Pont Saeson area north Pembrokeshire. study aims to see if chemistry zircons, which present both sets samples, could be used support petrographical association. Analyses for certain high field strength elements (including rare earth elements) obtained by LA-ICP-MS showed indeed analyses were nearly identical when compared using range statistical approaches, including coefficients, distance, principal analysis, showing clear differences sample had no reason correlated samples. There two important conclusions arising this study. Firstly, identification low ground Preseli will without doubt lead fresh debates about mechanisms transport site. Secondly, zircons may well prove have wider application an archaeological context.