Deciphering the origin of small metal artefacts from Castillo de Huarmey (Peru) with Pb, Cu, and Ag isotopes

A groundbreaking analysis of silver and copper artifacts from the Wari culture's first intact pre-Columbian tomb at Castillo de Huarmey, Peru, reveals evidence of extensive long-distance trade networks. By examining lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and silver (Ag) isotopes in 15 metal objects, researchers determined that most metals originated from primary hypogene ore deposits, likely sourced from the same regions as those used by the core Wari site at Conchopata. The variability in Pb isotopes suggests the use of regional ores with distinct isotopic signatures, such as those from the Julcani deposit, or potential mixing and re-smelting processes. Notably, some artifacts show isotopic signatures indicative of imports from distant regions, including northern Peru and southern Peru/Bolivia, pointing to vast trade interactions between the Wari Empire and the Tiwanaku state during the pre-Columbian era.

Kałaska, M., Mathur, R., Kamenov, G., Chyla, J., Prządka‐Giersz, P., & Giersz, M. (2022). Deciphering the origin of small metal artefacts from Castillo de Huarmey (Peru) with Pb, Cu, and Ag isotopes. Archaeometry, 64(5), 1168–1186. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/arcm.12775