Raw materials for medieval to post-medieval Tuscan glassmaking: new insight from LA-ICP-MS analyses

LA-ICP-MS analyses were performed on a set of Tuscan (post) medieval archaeological glass finds dated to the 13-16th century in order to quantitatively determine the trace element contents. The results are used for defining and distinguishing several compositional groups. The trace element data are consistent with the distinctions obtained by considering the major element data determined via quantitative SEM-EDX, but allow to obtain new insights into the nature and quality of the silica sources employed and the presumed method of ash purification. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.