Japanese Obsidian Online Database

Since April 2023, we have installed and operated the Rigaku NEX DE EDXRF system for obsidian analysis. Our primary objective is to establish a quantitative analysis of archaeological obsidian. To achieve this, we intend to create reference specimens of obsidian sources for the provenance analysis of obsidian artifacts and calibration standards to conduct the calibration and quantitative analysis based on the EDXRF system including the pXRF system.

The obsidian database can provide great support for archaeological and geological studies. There are two main purposes for the creation of the database. The first is establishing reference specimens from sources across Japan and compiling all of the data. The second is creating calibration standards for quantitative analysis using pXRF or EDXRF and promoting intra-laboratory studies. Well-organized obsidian reference specimens can facilitate a standardized approach to determining the source of obsidian artifacts. More accurate and reliable calibration standards enable independent verification of analytical techniques across laboratories.

We provide this storage facility to researchers worldwide who wish to conduct provenance analysis of archaeological obsidian artifacts in their XRF laboratories. Our samples are cut into small pieces with a flat surface polished using #800 carborundum, as seen in the accompanying pictures.