Browse by Material Type | Historic Jamestowne

The Jamestown Rediscovery collection includes artifacts ranging from lithic projectile points to silver jewelry. An artifact’s material type can offer clues as to who made the object, when it was made, what techniques were used in the item’s manufacture, where the maker was working, and for what purpose the object was made. Archaeologists commonly identify materials just by looking at an object. Scientific tests can also be applied to further specify the object’s composition. This information is especially important for conservators who apply chemical methods to preserve an artifact for years to come. Use the buttons below to browse selected artifacts by their material type.