Mineralogical–Geochemical Characterization and Provenance of the Stones Used at the Pasargadae Complex in Iran: A New Perspective

A new study reveals the provenance of stones used in the construction of Pasargadae, Iran's ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back to 550–330 BCE. Researchers identified Abolverdi quarry as the source for light limestone, particularly in Cyrus the Great's tomb, while Ahmad-Beigi and Sarpaniran outcrops supplied dark limestone. Using mineralogical and geochemical analysis—including optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, ICP-MS, and XRF—the team distinguished stone sources based on Sr/Fe ratios and rare-earth element concentrations. Principal component analysis confirmed these findings, offering fresh insights into the sophisticated stonework techniques of ancient Persian architecture.

Emami, M., Eslami, M., Fadaei, H., Karami, H. R., & Ahmadi, K. (2018). Mineralogical–Geochemical Characterization and Provenance of the Stones Used at the Pasargadae Complex in Iran: A New Perspective. Archaeometry, 60(6), 1184–1201. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/arcm.12395