Using new technology, researchers have been able to confirm the location of the world's oldest ochre mine and trace how ochre from the mine was dispersed to nearby communities.
Using new technology, researchers have been able to confirm the location of the world's oldest ochre mine and trace how ochre from the mine was dispersed to nearby communities.
Ochre is naturally occurring pigment that comes from iron-rich materials. As one of Earth's oldest materials, it has been used by people for thousands of years. Known as a pigment for cave paintings, and decoration of symbolic objects and personal ornamentation, it holds cultural, historical and spiritual significance in many societies. Its enduring presence offers scientists valuable insights into the growth of human society and self-expression.
"We take small samples of ochre artifacts and safely make them radioactive by exposing them to neutrons inside the reactor core," said MacDonald, a chemistry professor in the College of Arts and Science with a joint appointment at MURR's Archaeometry Lab."As these radioactive materials start to break down or decay, they emit characteristic energies in the form of radioisotopes -- which we can measure using gamma ray spectrometry.
Together, these innovative techniques helped uncover the hidden secrets of ancient ochre. By using modern science to analyze ancient history, they're piecing together a vivid picture of the past, highlighting Mizzou's role as a leader in innovative and transformative research.
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