Microscopic examination of ground sections – a simple method for distinguishing between bone and antler?

摘要: Both bones and antlers have been used throughout history for manufacturing various products. Therefore, archaeologists often to distinguish between these materials. The more the raw material (bone or antler) has treated, complicated it is distinguish. For this study, recent macerated archaeological samples of bone antler their products compared. Antler usually very easy based on characteristic surface structure; however, original not preserved in all artefacts. inner diaphysis long mostly compact with prominent trabeculae lamellae, whereas, after removal spongiosa, characterised by numerous grooves. Sometimes, artefacts are found which composed only substance, without outer surfaces, possible macroscopically. Haversian systems can be histological ground sections both antlers. In contrast bones, few interstitial lamellae. osteons seem smaller consist fewer layers than those bone. Inner circumferential lamellae cannot distinguished Although microscopic examination sectioned does allow distinction every case, represents a valuable additional tool distinguishing two materials historic Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.