An integrated analytical characterization of corrosion products on ornamental objects from the necropolis of Colle Badetta-Tortoreto (Teramo, Italy)

Selected groups of copper-based artifacts found during archaeological excavations of the necropolis of Colle Badetta-Tortoreto (Teramo, Italy) were investigated in order to determine the chemical composition and metallurgical features of the alloys and the micro-chemical and micro-structural nature of the corrosion products grown during the long-term burial. The investigated Cu-based artifacts were ornamental objects, such as rivets, buckles and small rings that were applied to large belts to form complex patterns with the addition of small and large shaped pieces of amber. The analytical characterization was performed by using different surface and bulk techniques, such as Optical Microscopy (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray micro-analysis (SEM-EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD).