This paper focuses on the mineralogical and chemical characterization of clayey raw materials to identify clay sources and address questions of ceramic provenance at the Harappan site of Rakhigarhi. In the first part of the study, the geological origin of clays was examined through a systematic field survey designed to locate and sample potential local raw material sources within the surrounding landscape. Clay sampling was carried out in relation to sedimentary contexts relevant to ceramic production. In the second part, an ethnoarchaeological approach was employed to document traditional practices of clay procurement and preparation, providing contextual insight into raw material selection and variability.
In the third part of the study, experimental replication and controlled firing tests were conducted on locally collected clays to investigate mineralogical phase transformations and firing temperature ranges. Archaeological ceramics, geological clays, and experimentally fired briquettes were analyzed using an integrated multi-analytical approach combining FTIR spectroscopy, SEM–EDX, and ICP-MS trace-element analysis, allowing the establishment of mineralogical and geochemical reference frameworks.
Finally, a comparative analysis of experimentally fired briquettes and archaeological ceramics was undertaken. The results indicate a strong mineralogical and chemical correspondence between local clays, experimental products, and most red ware ceramics, particularly from the Mature Harappan phase, suggesting predominantly local production. In contrast, selected Early Harappan and Hakra ceramics, especially mud-appliqué and grey ware, exhibit mineralogical and chemical signatures distinct from the local clay baseline, indicating the use of compositionally different or non-local raw materials.

First Author: Amit Ranjan

Keywords:
Mineralogy
SEM-EDX
Rakhigarhi
Experimental Briquettes
FTIR
ICP-MS