Abstract

Compositional Analysis is a key factor in recognizing the "recipe" of ceramic ware and inclusions, which can inform on such factors as resource procurement, patterns of redistribution, and production techniques ("chaine operatoire"). Previous studies from Pacific Nicaragua have utilized Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), though on limited scales. This paper will re-examine pottery samples excavated at the Santa Isabel site, in the Department of Rivas, including both petrographic and additional XRD analysis. Results will be used to evaluate questions of specialization, since a previous study using only XRD suggested possible distinctions in clay recipes between types and, in the case of monochrome utilitarian types, even between vessel forms.