The DOI matches its Crossref record; 26 of the 28 references it cites were found in a registry or an index; none of the 60 sources its claims cite is checked for support yet.
Compositional analysis and cross-cultural examination of blue and blue-green post-fire colorants on Tolita-Tumaco ceramics
Open accessAbstract
Este estudio explora los colorantes azules y azul-verdoso utilizados por la cultura Tolita-Tumaco de las costas antiguas de Ecuador y Colombia. Utilizando la difracción de Rayos X (DRX) y la microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM) con la espectroscopía de energía dispersiva (EDS), se analizaron muestras de cada uno de los colorantes azul y azul-verdoso para identificar las composicións mineral. La muestra azul verdosa de una cerámica encontrada en La Tolita fue identificada como celadonita o glauconita. Las pruebas de DRX y SEM en una muestra azul de un fragmento de figurilla de cerámica encontrado a lo largo del río Mataje se identificaron tentativamente como los anfíboles sódicos glaucofano y riebeckite. Las pruebas de DRX sugieren además otros minerales que pueden afectar el color, como la cordierita, antigorita y celadonita o glauconita. La comparación intercultural proporciona información sobre cómo los grupos ecuatorianos costeros utilizaron estos colorantes y ejemplifica la naturaleza innovadora detrás de su creación. Parece que el desarrollo de azul y azul verdosa ecuatoriano se derivó de las tradiciones de colorantes locales, con algunas fuentes de pigmentos localizadas.
Overview
AI snapshot
Written from the paper’s full text.
TL;DR
XRD and SEM-EDS of two post-fire colorant samples from Tolita-Tumaco ceramics (Maxwell Museum Ferdon collection) identify the La Tolita blue-green paint as celadonite or glauconite ("green earth") and tentatively identify the Rio Mataje blue as sodic amphiboles (glaucophane/riebeckite), with no copper present. Cross-cultural comparison suggests these blue and blue-green ceramic colorants were developed locally on the Ecuadorian coast rather than derived from outside traditions.
Key findings
- The La Tolita blue-green colorant (Munsell BG5 5/4) was identified by XRD and SEM-EDS as a Mg-Fe-Al phyllosilicate with high potassium, consistent with celadonite or glauconite — the main minerals of "green earth"; the two are indistinguishable by these methods.
- The Rio Mataje blue (B5 5/8) yielded tentative XRD identifications of glaucophane/riebeckite, cordierite, and antigorite (or possibly kaolinite); SEM showed amphibole group minerals but did not directly corroborate the XRD phases. SEM showed no copper, ruling out copper-carbonate blues such as azurite.
- The La Tolita sample's Munsell hue (5BG, value 5–6, chroma 4) is bluer, lighter, and more saturated than published green earth ranges (2G–8G, value 2.7–3.0, chroma 1.0–1.5), possibly indicating unidentified additives; the Rio Mataje blue is likewise brighter than typical sodic-amphibole blues.
- Green earth is rare as a ceramic pigment elsewhere in pre-Hispanic Latin America (e.g., Rosalila at Copán, La Quemada, Pachacamac's Painted Temple, Huaca Ventarrón); the nearest known celadonite/glauconite source is the Cayo Arc (Manabí Province), outside the Tolita-Tumaco area, implying exchange with the Jama-Coaque. Combined with Romero et al. (2018), four green samples plus this blue-green sample document green earth as a post-fire pigment in Jama-Coaque and Tolita-Tumaco traditions.
Methods
- Two colorant samples from the Ferdon collection (Maxwell Museum of Anthropology): a blue-green-painted incised rim sherd from La Tolita and a blue-painted figurine head from the Rio Mataje area; provenance reconstructed from object labels, museum records, and prior dissertations.
- XRD: intact testing on a Rigaku D/Max Rapid II was inconclusive, so ~20 mg samples were scraped off each surface and run unground on a Rigaku SmartLab with Eulerian-cradle oscillation; ten theta/two-theta scans per sample were combined to improve sampling statistics.
- SEM-EDS: carbon-coated stubs on a Tescan Vega 3 with IXRF analyzer at 15 kV and 1 nA, using backscattered imaging, element mapping, and point analyses; results were contextualized through iconographic and cross-cultural comparison.
Limitations
- The authors state the sample size (two samples) is too small for definitive claims, and the Rio Mataje blue results are "not entirely conclusive," with mineral identifications only tentative and XRD and SEM not directly verifying one another.
- Celadonite and glauconite cannot be distinguished by XRD or SEM-EDS; samples were not ground (poor diffraction statistics), and the possible off-white slip on the figurine would require thin sections to confirm (not done).
- Provenance is incomplete: most Ferdon field records were lost or faded, some pieces were mislabeled, and the Rio Mataje figurine's exact findspot is uncertain (evident from the text's provenance discussion). Binders and possible color-altering additives remain unidentified, and the exact green earth source deposit has not been located.
Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.
Integrity signals
Registry
Cites
Statistics
Verification
Claims the paper makes
0 of 60 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged
- Findingown data
SEM results for the Rio Mataje blue sample show with some certainty that no copper is present in the blue sample.
“SEM results for the Rio Mataje blue sample show with some certainty that no copper is present in the blue sample, which rules out many possible blue minerals.”
- Also stated in: § 5. Concluding Remarks · hedged
“The SEM results offered here suggest that the blue does not contain copper, which is in direct contrast to many of the blue colorants used in pre-Hispanic Latin America.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Also stated in: § 5. Concluding Remarks · hedged
- Findingown data
The intact XRD method on the La Tolita sherd produced inconclusive results.
“Results from this method of analysis were inconclusive.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Riebeckite was only tentatively identifiable with the quantitative data gathered in SEM point analyses.
“The sodic amphibole riebeckite was only tentatively identifiable with the quantitative data gathered in SEM point analyses, but the potential of riebeckite and glaucophane as colorants can be further examined.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
XRD results for the La Tolita sample demonstrated several clear peaks corresponding to the phyllosilicate minerals celadonite or glauconite.
“XRD results for the La Tolita sample demonstrated several clear peaks corresponding to the phyllosilicate minerals celadonite or glauconite (Fig. 7).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingnone given
The La Tolita blue-green sample was determined to be celadonite or glauconite.
“The La Tolita blue-green sample was determined to be celadonite or glauconite, which are known as the most common minerals used in «green earth» pigment.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
- Findingown data
The Rio Mataje blue sample's XRD results exhibited a weak peak where the diagnostic celadonite or glauconite peak would be expected.
“The Rio Mataje blue (B5 5/8) XRD results (Fig. 7) exhibited a weak peak where the diagnostic celadonite or glauconite peak would be expected.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
None of these minerals were clearly identifiable in SEM testing.
“However, none of these minerals were clearly identifiable in SEM testing.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Element mapping and backscattered electron imaging showed a relatively homogenous sample of phyllosilicates and amphibole minerals.
“Element mapping and imaging with backscattered electrons showed a relatively homogenous sample of phyllosilicates and amphibole minerals.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The greenish blue sample from a ceramic found at La Tolita was identified as celadonite or glauconite.
“La muestra azul verdosa de una cerámica encontrada en La Tolita fue identificada como celadonita o glauconita.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The blue sample from a ceramic figurine fragment found along the Mataje River was tentatively identified as the sodic amphiboles glaucophane and riebeckite.
“Las pruebas de DRX y SEM en una muestra azul de un fragmento de figurilla de cerámica encontrado a lo largo del río Mataje se identificaron tentativamente como los anfíboles sódicos glaucofano y riebeckite.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Antigorite was identified in the Rio Mataje sample.
“Cordierite, a magnesium-iron-aluminum cyclosilicate, and antigorite, a common serpentine mineral, were also identified.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Quantitative data for one amphibole may show a calcic amphibole, like hornblende or ferro-chloro-pargasite.
“The quantitative data for one of the amphiboles (Table 1) may show a calcic amphibole, like hornblende or ferro-chloro-pargasite.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Antigorite, a serpentine mineral, was also identified on XRD.
“Antigorite, a serpentine mineral, was also identified on XRD, but it has a range closer to green and blue-green in color.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
A sodic amphibole, possibly glaucophane or riebeckite, was identified in the Rio Mataje sample.
“A sodic amphibole, possibly glaucophane or riebeckite was identified.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
XRD tests suggest other minerals that may affect the color, such as cordierite, antigorite, and celadonite or glauconite.
“Las pruebas de DRX sugieren además otros minerales que pueden afectar el color, como la cordierita, antigorita y celadonita o glauconita.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Cordierite was identified in the Rio Mataje sample.
“Cordierite, a magnesium-iron-aluminum cyclosilicate, and antigorite, a common serpentine mineral, were also identified.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingnone given
The blue present on the Rio Mataje sample is brighter than the typical sodic amphibole-produced blue.
“The blue present on the Rio Mataje sample is brighter than the typical sodic amphibole-produced blue, which may signify other unidentified additives.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Rio Mataje sample XRD tests identified the sodic amphiboles glaucophane and riebeckite.
“The Rio Mataje sample XRD tests instead identified the sodic amphiboles glaucophane and riebeckite, both of which have the potential to be responsible for the blue color.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
SEM point analyses of the La Tolita sample demonstrated a magnesium-iron-aluminum phyllosilicate with high levels of potassium, consistent with either celadonite or glauconite.
“The SEM point analyses demonstrated the presence of a magnesium-iron-aluminum phyllosilicate with high levels of potassium, consistent with either celadonite or glauconite (Fig. 8).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
The results in this study do not demonstrate signs of modern repainting attempts.
“The results in this study do not demonstrate signs of modern repainting attempts.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingcitation
Currently, all four green samples from another study and one blue-green sample from this study demonstrate the use of green earth as a post-fire pigment within the Jama-Coaque and Tolita-Tumaco ceramic traditions.
“Currently, all four green samples from another study and one blue-green sample from this study demonstrate the use of green earth as a post-fire pigment within the Jama-Coaque and Tolita-Tumaco ceramic traditions (Romero et al. 2018).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Romero et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Findingown data
The blue-green sample from La Tolita was shown to contain celadonite or glauconite.
“The blue-green sample from La Tolita was shown to contain celadonite or glauconite.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationnone given
Cross-cultural comparison demonstrates how rarely green earth is found as a ceramic colorant.
“Cross-cultural comparison demonstrates how rarely green earth is found as a ceramic colorant.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
This finding further demonstrates the likelihood of trade and interaction between the Tolita-Tumaco and Jama-Coaque.
“With the connections between these cultures seen in the archaeological evidence, this finding further demonstrates the likelihood of trade and interaction between the Tolita-Tumaco and Jama-Coaque (Meggers 1966;Masucci 2008;Valdez 1987).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Meggers 1966
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Masucci 2008
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Valdez 1987
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationown data
Together, the two tests indicate that the blue-green color on the La Tolita sample originates from celadonite or glauconite.
“Together, the two tests indicate that the bluegreen color originates from celadonite or glauconite.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: Celadonite and glauconite are closely related and indistinguishable using XRD and SEM-EDS testing methods.
- Rests on an assumption: No mineral other than celadonite or glauconite could produce the observed XRD and SEM-EDS results for the blue-green colorant.
- Study design and conductown data
The two tests (XRD and SEM) did not directly verify one another.
“Though the results of the two tests did not directly verify one another, they demonstrate that a particularly blue amphibole may be responsible for the Rio Mataje sample's color.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationown data
The absence of copper in the Rio Mataje blue sample rules out many possible blue minerals.
“SEM results for the Rio Mataje blue sample show with some certainty that no copper is present in the blue sample, which rules out many possible blue minerals.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Celadonite and glauconite cannot be heated to ceramic firing temperatures and retain their color; heated they turn a burnt umber.
“These minerals cannot be heated to ceramic firing temperatures and retain their color; heated celadonite and glauconite in particular turn a burnt umber (Grissom 1986).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Grissom 1986
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationown data
The development of Ecuadorian blue and blue-green derived from local ceramic colorant traditions, with some localized pigment sources.
“Parece que el desarrollo de azul y azul verdosa ecuatoriano se derivó de las tradiciones de colorantes locales, con algunas fuentes de pigmentos localizadas.”
- Also stated in: § 1. Introduction · hedged
“It appears that the development of Ecuadorian blue and bluegreen derived from local ceramic colorant traditions.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Also stated in: § 1. Introduction · hedged
- Premisecitation
Celadonite is also found much further inland in the Fruta del Norte deposit in the Zamora-Chinchipe Province.
“Celadonite is also found much further inland in the Fruta del Norte deposit in the Zamora-Chinchipe Province (Lipiec et al. 2016).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Lipiec et al. 2016
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationreasoning
The results demonstrate that a particularly blue amphibole may be responsible for the Rio Mataje sample's color.
“Though the results of the two tests did not directly verify one another, they demonstrate that a particularly blue amphibole may be responsible for the Rio Mataje sample's color.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Many of the popular and sporadic blue colorants used in pre-Hispanic Latin America contained copper.
“Many of the popular and sporadic blue colorants used in pre-Hispanic Latin America contained copper.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Brooks et al. 2008
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Fletcher 2002 source
- cites de la Fuente 1995
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationreasoning
In pre-Hispanic Latin America, instances of green earth's usage are somewhat sporadic.
“In pre-Hispanic Latin America, instances of green earth's usage are somewhat sporadic.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Premisecitation
The Cayo Arc source is further suggested in the research associated with the Museum of Precolumbian Art Casa del Alabado collections.
“The Cayo Arc source is further suggested in the research associated with the Museum of Precolumbian Art Casa del Alabado collections (Romero et al. 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Romero et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationreasoning
The Jama-Coaque culture further south in the Manabí Province would have been the closest group with access to green earth deposits.
“The Jama-Coaque culture further south in the Manabí Province would have been the closest group with access to green earth deposits.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: There are no known sources of celadonite and glauconite within the Tolita-Tumaco cultural area.
- Premisecitation
The closest potential source for glaucophane is in the El Oro Province in Southern Ecuador.
“The closest potential source for glaucophane is in the El Oro Province in Southern Ecuador (Aspden 1995).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Aspden 1995
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationreasoning
The source(s) of green and blue-green colorants were most likely local and abundant enough for centuries of use.
“Considering that green and blue-green are relatively common on these ceramics, the source, or sources, were most likely local and abundant enough to allow for centuries of use.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: Green and blue-green post-fire colorants were used with some frequency on coastal Ecuadorian ceramics.
- Premisecitation
The closest known source containing celadonite and glauconite is the Cayo Arc, a geological formation extending from the coast of the Manabí Province southeast into the Bay of Guayaquil.
“The closest known source that contains celadonite and glauconite is the Cayo Arc, a geological formation extending from the coast of the Manabí Province southeast into the Bay of Guayaquil (Morante Carballo 2004;Machiels et al. 2014).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Morante Carballo 2004
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Machiels et al. 2014
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationown data
Our research shows the Rio Mataje blue colorant is not made from the many copper-containing blue minerals.
“Perhaps further testing of Ecuadorian post-fire blue colorants will provide insight into their exact composition, but our research shows it is not made from the many copper-containing blue minerals.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Premisecitation
Researchers found glauconite in four green samples, three associated with the Jama-Coaque culture and one from Tolita-Tumaco.
“Researchers found glauconite in four green samples, three of which are associated with the Jama-Coaque culture, and one from the Tolita-Tumaco (Romero et al. 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Romero et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationown data
Analysis of blue and blue-green colorants, combined with close comparison of test results to other pre-Hispanic Latin American blues and greens, establishes the unique character of ceramic colorant traditions of coastal Ecuador during the RDP.
“Analysis of blue and blue-green colorants, combined with close comparison of test results to other pre-Hispanic Latin American blues and greens, establish the unique character of ceramic colorant traditions of coastal Ecuador during the RDP.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationcitation
The inability of celadonite and glauconite to retain color during firing may have made them more desirable as architectural or rock art pigment rather than ceramic colorant in pre-Hispanic Latin America.
“Their inability to retain their original color during firing may have made them more desirable in pre-Hispanic Latin America as an architectural or rock art pigment, rather than a ceramic colorant.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
Blue-green and green held an important role in representations of particular events and characters on the coast's finest ceramics.
“Painted on some of the coast's finest ceramic examples, blue-green and green held an important role in the representations of particular events and characters.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
Compared to the Rio Mataje sample that exhibits no green hues, antigorite seems the least likely colorant.
“Compared to the Rio Mataje sample that exhibits no green hues, it seems the least likely colorant.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationown data
Despite knowledge that these cultures were historically involved in long distance maritime trade, evidence suggests that ceramic colorant traditions associated with the Tolita-Tumaco were independently developed in the region.
“Despite knowledge that these cultures were historically involved in long distance maritime trade, evidence suggests that ceramic colorant traditions associated with the Tolita-Tumaco were independently developed in the region.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: With the exception of kaolinite, the minerals identified as potential colorants are not frequently found as colorants.
- Interpretationreasoning
The findings express the uniqueness of ceramic colorant traditions used in coastal Ecuadorian RDP cultures.
“The findings of this study express the uniqueness of ceramic colorant traditions used in coastal Ecuadorian RDP cultures.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: With the exception of kaolinite, the minerals identified as potential colorants are not frequently found as colorants.
- Interpretationreasoning
In the case of the blue-green pigment made of celadonite or glauconite, it seems that local resources associated with related cultures nearby were used to create the colorant.
“In the case of the blue-green pigment made of celadonite or glauconite, it seems that local resources associated with related cultures nearby were used to create the colorant.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
The XRD and SEM results tentatively demonstrate that the blue colorant could originate from a sodic amphibole, like glaucophane or riebeckite.
“Instead, the XRD and SEM results tentatively demonstrate that the blue colorant could originate from a sodic amphibole, like glaucophane or riebeckite.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Study design and conductnone given
The sample size in this study is too small for definitive claims.
“Although the sample size here is too small for definitive claims, this study brings forth contextual information associated with the use of green earth through observable similarities on Ecuadorian post-fire colorants, and the availability of the resource.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationcitation
It is likely that coastal Ecuadorians used localized sources to obtain green earth, considering the close proximity of a potential source in the Cayo Arc.
“It is likely that coastal Ecuadorians used localized sources to obtain green earth, considering the close proximity of a potential source in the Cayo Arc (Morante Carballo 2004;Machiels et al. 2014).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Morante Carballo 2004
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Machiels et al. 2014
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Interpretationnone given
Within the Tolita-Tumaco and Jama-Coaque cultures, green and blue-green colorants were used as a post-fire addition of color on particular ceramic characters.
“Within the Tolita-Tumaco and Jama-Coaque cultures, green and blue-green colorants were used as a post-fire addition of color on particular ceramic characters.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationreasoning
The use of highly fugitive post-fire paints on ceramic figurines, sometimes attached to whistling vessels or made into vessels themselves, suggests that these objects were occasional or single use objects.
“The use of highly fugitive post-fire paints on ceramic figurines, which are sometimes attached to whistling vessels or made into vessels themselves, suggest that these objects were occasional or single use objects.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Interpretationown data
It is possible that the Tolita-Tumaco ceramists used kaolinite as well.
“Tentatively identified in XRD tests in the Rio Mataje and La Tolita samples, it is possible that the Tolita-Tumaco ceramists used kaolinite as well.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
- It may state two separate claims as one. 27
- Probably not a substantial claim. 53
It may state two separate claims as one.
Findingown dataThe La Tolita sample has a hue of 5BG, values ranging from 5-6, and a chroma of 4.
“The sample itself has a hue of 5BG, values ranging from 5-6, and a chroma of 4.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimIt may state two separate claims as one.
Findingown dataSEM results showed amphibole group minerals, clay, a mineral containing cerium, and a pyrite inclusion in the Rio Mataje sample.
“SEM results showed amphibole group minerals (Fig. 9), clay, one instance of a mineral containing the rare earth metal cerium, and one pyrite inclusion.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
Findingown dataClay, possibly kaolinite, quartz, and an amphibole group mineral were also found in XRD tests of the La Tolita sample.
“Clay, which is possibly kaolinite, quartz, and an amphibole group mineral were also found in XRD tests of the sample.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimIt may state two separate claims as one.
Findingnone givenThe sherd found at La Tolita exhibits differences in colorant degradation; the red and yellow colorants are almost completely degraded, whereas the blue-green pigment remains more intact.
“The sherd found at La Tolita exhibits differences in colorant degradation; the red and yellow colorants on the piece are almost completely degraded, whereas the blue-green pigment remains more intact.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
Findingnone givenRemnants of red and yellow post-fire paint are also found on other incised sections of the La Tolita sherd.
“Remnants of red and yellow post-fire paint are also found on other incised sections.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimIt may state two separate claims as one.
Findingown dataThe serpentine mineral antigorite or kaolinite clay, and cordierite, a cyclosilicate, are potential mineral colorants identified in XRD tests.
“Additionally, the serpentine mineral, antigorite or kaolinite clay, and cordierite, a cyclosilicate, are potential mineral colorants identified in XRD tests.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimIt may state two separate claims as one.
Findingnone givenThe blue-green pigment sample tested here was well adhered to the ceramic surface and was much less fugitive than the red and yellow colorants present.
“Potential binders are unknown, but the blue-green pigment sample tested here was well adhered to the ceramic surface, and was much less fugitive than the red and yellow colorants present.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimIt may state two separate claims as one.
Interpretationown dataThe minerals identified in the Rio Mataje sample have the potential to be responsible for the blue-green color, but their identifications are only tentative.
“All of these minerals have the potential to be responsible for the adding color in the range of green to blue, but their identifications are only tentative.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationThese figures were often painted in post-fire polychrome.
“These figures are associated with many different actions and regalia and were often painted in post-fire polychrome (Meggers 1966;Cummins 1992;Valdez 1992).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Meggers 1966
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Cummins 1992
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Valdez 1992
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
It may state two separate claims as one.
Interpretationown dataThe La Tolita sample's color ranges more towards blue-green hue and is lighter with more saturation than reported green earth ranges, which may suggest other unidentified additives.
“These results range more towards the blue-green hue and are lighter in value with more saturation to the color, which may suggest the presence of other unidentified additives.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
Study design and conductown dataThe second sample is from a small figurine head found somewhere along the Rio Mataje.
“The second sample (Figs.45) is from a small figurine head found somewhere along the Rio Mataje (Fig. 3).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The original accompanying label accurately identifies the figurine as collected along the Rio Mataje.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationAt Copan, Honduras, green paint on the Rosalila building contains celadonite.
“At the archaeological site Copan in Honduras, Rosemary Goodall and her team (2006) found that a green paint covering the exterior or the well-preserved Rosalila building contains celadonite.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Goodall et al. 2006 source
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationGreen earth is a collection of siliceous minerals commonly used as pigments in many cultures worldwide.
“Green earth is a collection of siliceous minerals that are commonly used as pigments in many cultures worldwide (Grissom 1986).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Grissom 1986
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
It may state two separate claims as one.
Interpretationnone givenAcross pre-Hispanic Latin America, green earth has a variety of uses, but coastal Ecuador is one of the few places where it is found as a post-fire ceramic pigment.
“Across pre-Hispanic Latin America, green earth has a variety of uses, but it seems that coastal Ecuador is one of the few places where it is found as a post-fire ceramic pigment.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationGreen earth was used as a post-fire ceramic pigment on polychrome pseudo-cloisonné ceramics from La Quemada in western Mexico.
“In a rare example of green earth used as a post-fire ceramic pigment in pre-Hispanic Latin America outside of the Ecuadorian coast, the pigment was found on polychrome pseudo-cloisonné ceramics from La Quemada in western Mexico (Strazicich 2002).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Strazicich 2002
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationLight blue-green colorants appear on objects attributed to the earlier Chorrera Period (1200-300 BC).
“Light blue-green colorants appear on objects attributed the earlier Chorrera Period (1200-300 BC) (Cummins 1992).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Cummins 1992
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationReported Munsell color equivalents for green earth range from 2G to 8G hue, values 2.7 to 3.0, and chromas 1.0 to 1.5.
“Reported equivalents of Munsell color hues for green earth range from 2G to 8G, values from 2.7 to 3.0, and chromas from 1.0 to 1.5 (Grissom 1986: 145).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Grissom 1986: 145
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.
Interpretationnone givenThe frequency of green earth as a post-fire ceramic pigment in coastal Ecuador is perhaps best explained by the localized nature of the source.
“Perhaps this frequency is best explained by the localized nature of the source.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimIt may state two separate claims as one.
InterpretationreasoningThe peak identified as antigorite on the diffractogram can alternatively be identified as kaolinite, a more likely option considering the sample's color.
“The peak identified as Antigorite on the diffractogram can alternatively be identified as kaolinite, a more likely option considering the sample's color.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationCeladonite and glauconite are the most common minerals used in green earth pigment.
“The La Tolita blue-green sample was determined to be celadonite or glauconite, which are known as the most common minerals used in «green earth» pigment.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Grissom 1986
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
Study design and conductown dataThe first sample was taken from a sherd identified as originating from the site La Tolita by a label on the ceramic itself.
“The first sample was taken from a sherd (Figs.12) identified as originating from the site La Tolita by a label on the ceramic itself.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The label on the La Tolita sherd accurately identifies its origin from the site La Tolita.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
Premisenone givenThe static female figurine most commonly wears a long skirt and a similar head cloth or headdress that appears to wrap around the head.
“This static female figurine most commonly wears a long skirt and a similar head cloth or headdress that appears to wrap around the head.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Meggers 1966
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
PremisecitationTeotihuacan used azurite for murals and stuccoed polychrome ceramics.
“Teotihuacan used azurite for murals and stuccoed polychrome ceramics, the Maya occasionally used it on murals as well, and it is also found in Peru at Chan Chan on Huaca Tacaynamo murals, and Paracas resin painted pottery (Brooks et al. 2008;Fletcher 2002;de la Fuente 1995;Magaloni et al. 1995;Proulx 2009).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Brooks et al. 2008
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Fletcher 2002 source
- cites de la Fuente 1995
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.
Study design and conductnone givenThe identifying markings on the figurine are consistent with Ferdon's labeling method.
“The identifying markings on the piece are consistent with Ferdon's labeling method.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
Study design and conductown dataProvenance information for the figurine was found on the original accompanying label, suggesting it was collected along the Rio Mataje.
“Provenance information for this figurine was found on the original accompanying label, which suggests that it was collected along the Rio Mataje.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The original accompanying label accurately identifies the figurine as collected along the Rio Mataje.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.
Interpretationnone givenOutside of the Ecuadorian coast, green earth may be most commonly used in pre-Hispanic Latin America as an architectural and rock art colorant.
“Outside of the Ecuadorian coast, green earth may be most commonly used in pre-Hispanic Latin America as an architectural and rock art colorant.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationWhite kaolinite pigment used on ceramics amongst the Jama-Coaque may have originated from southeast Ecuador.
“For instance, white kaolinite pigment used on ceramics amongst the Jama-Coaque may have originated from southeast Ecuador (Romero et al. 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Romero et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
PremisecitationA pale green colorant at the Painted Temple at Pachacamac was identified as ferroceladonite, an iron-rich form of celadonite, but it is sparingly used at the site.
“Researchers have identified a pale green colorant at the Painted Temple as ferroceladonite, an iron rich form of celadonite, but it is sparingly used at the site (Lujan 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Lujan 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim.
Study design and conductreasoningCombining ten theta/two theta scans from each sample provided a final pattern more representative of a randomly-oriented powder.
“Ten theta/two theta scan data sets collected from each sample were then combined to provide a final pattern that was more representative of a randomly-oriented powder.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
PremisecitationGlauconite is of marine origin, whereas celadonite is of altered volcanic origin.
“The difference between these minerals is their formation; glauconite is a mineral of marine origin, whereas celadonite is of altered volcanic origin (Grissom 1986).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Grissom 1986
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
PremisecitationA stucco mask panel sampled by Goodall showed over twenty layers of paint, indicating repainting over 520-655 AD.
“A panel holding a stucco mask sampled for Goodall's study showed over twenty layers of paint, demonstrating that the mask had been repainted over the century (520-655 AD) that the Rosalila building was maintained.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Goodall et al. 2006 source
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
PremisecitationAzurite is found in Peru at Chan Chan on Huaca Tacaynamo murals and on Paracas resin painted pottery.
“Teotihuacan used azurite for murals and stuccoed polychrome ceramics, the Maya occasionally used it on murals as well, and it is also found in Peru at Chan Chan on Huaca Tacaynamo murals, and Paracas resin painted pottery (Brooks et al. 2008;Fletcher 2002;de la Fuente 1995;Magaloni et al. 1995;Proulx 2009).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Brooks et al. 2008
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Fletcher 2002 source
- cites de la Fuente 1995
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationFrescos and ceramics with both glaucophane and riebeckite, often mixed with Egyptian Blue, have been found at several Bronze Age Greek sites, but they are uncommon outside that particular time and space.
“Frescos and ceramics with both glaucophane and riebeckite, often mixed with Egyptian Blue, have been found at several Bronze Age Greek sites, but they are uncommon outside of that particular time and space (Aloupi et al. 2000;Profi et al. 1977).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Aloupi et al. 2000
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Profi et al. 1977 source
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds.
PremisecitationThe most common blue pigment used in pre-Hispanic Latin America may be azurite, a copper carbonate.
“Manmade creations like Maya Blue aside, the most common blue pigment used in pre-Hispanic Latin America may be azurite, a copper carbonate.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
InterpretationreasoningThe brighter blue on the Rio Mataje sample may signify other unidentified additives.
“The blue present on the Rio Mataje sample is brighter than the typical sodic amphibole-produced blue, which may signify other unidentified additives.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationThe Maya occasionally used azurite on murals.
“Teotihuacan used azurite for murals and stuccoed polychrome ceramics, the Maya occasionally used it on murals as well, and it is also found in Peru at Chan Chan on Huaca Tacaynamo murals, and Paracas resin painted pottery (Brooks et al. 2008;Fletcher 2002;de la Fuente 1995;Magaloni et al. 1995;Proulx 2009).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Brooks et al. 2008
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Fletcher 2002 source
- cites de la Fuente 1995
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
It may state two separate claims as one.
Interpretationown dataGlaucophane and riebeckite both have the potential to be responsible for the blue color.
“The Rio Mataje sample XRD tests instead identified the sodic amphiboles glaucophane and riebeckite, both of which have the potential to be responsible for the blue color.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationColorants found on objects in the royal tombs of the Maya site Calakmul were made of the copper-zinc phosphate, veszelyite.
“For example, colorants found on objects in the royal tombs of the Maya site Calakmul were made of the copper-zinc phosphate, veszelyite (Moreno et al. 2008).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Moreno et al. 2008
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationAnother study showed the potential for celadonite and glauconite to be the source for green and blue-green ceramic colorants along the Ecuadorian coast.
“Although it is not certain that all or the majority of Ecuadorian blue-green and green colorants contain green earth, another study has further showed the potential for celadonite and glauconite to be the source for green and blue-green ceramic colorants along the Ecuadorian coast (Romero et al. 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Romero et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
InterpretationreasoningThe presence of kaolinite in lieu of antigorite is possible in the Rio Mataje sample.
“The presence of the clay mineral, kaolinite, in lieu of antigorite is also possible, having a major peak at the same location as the antigorite peak.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationThe Maya used white calcite stucco underneath paint to brighten the shade.
“The Maya used white calcite stucco underneath the paint to brighten the shade, and added finely ground magnetite to alter the color (Goodall et al. 2006).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Goodall et al. 2006 source
It may state two separate claims as one.
InterpretationreasoningWith the proximity of celadonite and glauconite source material, and if the majority of coastal green and blue-green colorants contain green earth, then the pigment likely originated from local sources within the Cayo Arc.
“With the proximity of celadonite and glauconite source material, and if the majority of the coastal green and blue-green colorants contain green earth, then the pigment likely originated from local sources within the Cayo Arc.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- The authors state this as an assumption: The majority of coastal Ecuadorian green and blue-green colorants contain green earth.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
Study design and conductreasoningThe samples were not ground, resulting in poor diffracted intensity sampling statistics.
“To avoid losing any weight on the small amounts of each colorant, the samples were not ground, resulting in poor diffracted intensity sampling statistics.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
InterpretationcitationIt is possible that the Ecuadorians traveled some distance to obtain pigments, considering their maritime skills and known evidence of pigment exchange.
“It is possible that the Ecuadorians traveled some distance to obtain pigments, considering their maritime skills and known evidence of pigment exchange mentioned in this study and elsewhere (Sánchez-Polo 2018; Romero et al. 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Sánchez-Polo 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Romero et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- Rests on an assumption: There are no known sources for riebeckite close to the Tolita-Tumaco area in Ecuador or Colombia.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationMany more sporadic examples across the Americas have been shown to contain copper.
“Many more sporadic examples across the Americas have also been shown to contain copper.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
InterpretationreasoningThe color may hold political and ideological significance as it is often found in association with representations of elaborately dressed figurines.
“The color may ISSN 1029ISSN -2004 hold political and ideological significance as it is often found in association with representations of elaborately dressed figurines.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationGreen earth has been identified on rock painting in cave shelters at several early hunter-gatherer sites in Argentina.
“In Argentina, green earth has been identified on rock painting in cave shelters at several early hunter-gatherer sites (Aldazabal et al. 2018;Boschin 2011;Rousaki et al. 2017;Wainwright et al. 2000).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites Aldazabal et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Boschin 2011
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Rousaki et al. 2017 source
Checked before — its earlier verdict is held back until a new check runs.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationA green clay tentatively identified as green earth through chemical composition was used on older murals at Huaca Ventarrón (2300-2035 BC) in the Lambayeque Valley of Northern Peru.
“A green clay that could also be tentatively identified as green earth through its chemical composition was used on much older murals at Huaca Ventarrón (2300-2035 BC) in the Lambayeque Valley of Northern Peru (Wright et al. 2015).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Wright et al. 2015 source
Checked before — its earlier verdict is held back until a new check runs.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationA study at the Precolumbian Art Museum Casa del Alabado demonstrated that three out of four white ceramic colorants from the Jama-Coaque contained kaolinite clay, whereas the other was made of calcite.
“A study conducted on ceramics at the Precolumbian Art Museum Casa del Alabado demonstrated that three out of four white ceramic colorants from the Jama-Coaque contained kaolinite clay, whereas the other was made of calcite (Romero et al. 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Romero et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
PremisecitationThe relationship that blue and blue-green colorants have with the figural form is unknown, and little research has been done into color associations on the coast.
“The relationship that blue and blue-green colorants have with the figural form is unknown, and little research has been done into color associations on the coast (Sánchez-Polo 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Sánchez-Polo 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationBetty Meggers first pointed out a type of female figurine as a stylistic trope used across the coast.
“Betty Meggers (1966) first pointed out this type of female figurine as a stylistic trope used across the coast.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Meggers 1966
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
InterpretationreasoningWhite kaolinite clay may have been used to further alter the final color of the Rio Mataje sample.
“White koalinite clay may have been used to further alter the final color.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationPachacamac in Peru is one of the few areas in South America where green earth has been identified.
“The coastal site of Pachacamac in Peru is one of the few areas in South America where green earth has been identified (Lujan 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Lujan 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationThe trend of creating hollow polychrome ceramic figurines lasted for many centuries.
“The trend of creating hollow polychrome ceramic figurines lasted for many centuries (Valdez 1987).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Valdez 1987
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
It may state two separate claims as one.
Interpretationown dataThe amphibole's iron and sodium content could suggest it is riebeckite intergrown with another calcic mineral, or impure riebeckite.
“However, it contains iron and sodium, which could suggest that it is riebeckite intergrown with another calcic mineral, or impure riebeckite.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. The paper may give no reason why it holds. It may state two separate claims as one.
Interpretationnone givenGreen and blue-green were used as a reflection of costume elements in real performances or displays, which may hold ideological and ritual associations.
“It appears that green and blue-green were used as a reflection of costume elements used in real performances or displays, which may hold ideological and ritual associations.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationThe Maya added finely ground magnetite to alter paint color.
“The Maya used white calcite stucco underneath the paint to brighten the shade, and added finely ground magnetite to alter the color (Goodall et al. 2006).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Goodall et al. 2006 source
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it. It may state two separate claims as one.
InterpretationreasoningThe closest access point to the Cayo Arc is within the Manabí Province, suggesting the potential for trade relations with the Jama-Coaque culture.
“The closest access point to the Cayo Arc is within the Manabí Province, suggesting the potential for trade relations with the Jama-Coaque culture.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The closest access point to the Cayo Arc is within the Manabí Province.
It may state two separate claims as one.
Interpretationnone givenFigurines and figural objects where these colorants are found display elite status associations, and the colors were used on figurines for certain clothing aspects, like jewelry, headdresses, and skirts.
“Figurines and figural objects where these colorants are found display elite status associations, and the colors were used on figurines for certain clothing aspects, like jewelry, headdresses, and skirts.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationPast studies of Ecuadorian blue and green colorants have shown modern colorant additives, like phthalocyanine blue, thought by the researchers to be a product of past restoration attempts.
“Past studies of Ecuadorian blue and green colorants have also shown modern colorant additives, like phthalocyanine blue, thought by the researchers to be a product of past restoration attempts (Sánchez-Polo et al. 2018).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Sánchez-Polo et al. 2018
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationCeladonite and glauconite are considered suitable bases for many other organic and mineral colorants.
“Celadonite and glauconite are considered to be suitable bases for many other organic and mineral colorants (Grissom 1986).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites Grissom 1986
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
It may state two separate claims as one.
Interpretationown dataThe results show potential mineral sources for the colors, suggesting that not all blue post-fire colorants found on coastal Ecuadorian ceramics are the result of later additions and restoration.
“Alternatively, they show potential mineral sources for the colors, suggesting that not all blue post-fire colorants found on coastal Ecuadorian ceramics are the result of later additions and restoration.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
Study design and conductnone givenThe results for the Rio Mataje blue colorant were not entirely conclusive.
“The results for the Rio Mataje blue colorant were not entirely conclusive.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper may give no reason why it holds.
Interpretationnone givenThe use of green earth is not commonly seen as a pigment elsewhere in pre-Hispanic Latin America, with only a handful of identified examples on both continents.
“The use of green earth is not commonly seen as a pigment elsewhere in the pre-Hispanic Latin America, with only a handful of identified examples on both continents.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimIt may state two separate claims as one.
InterpretationreasoningUse of blue colorants was much more sporadic than other colors along the RDP Ecuadorian coast, possibly as a result of source material rarity.
“Use of blue colorants was much more sporadic than other colors along the RDP Ecuadorian coast, possibly as a result of source material rarity.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
PremisecitationAs other scholars have proposed, ceramic figurines in northern Ecuador appear to have ideological and high status associations behind their production and use.
“As other scholars have proposed, ceramic figurines in northern Ecuador appear to have ideological and high status associations behind their production and use (Cummins 1992;Valdez 1992).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites Cummins 1992
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
- cites Valdez 1992
Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.
Probably not a substantial claim.
Interpretationnone givenGreen earth was known to have been used as a colorant mainly for rock art and architecture, and was rarely used on ceramics.
“Known to have been used as a colorant mainly for rock art and architecture, this pigment was rarely used on ceramics.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim. The paper’s conclusions may not depend on it.
InterpretationreasoningKaolinite may have been added to make the overall colors lighter on the Tolita-Tumaco ceramics tested in this study.
“In contrast to the Jama-Coaque area, where the clay was used to produce a white pigment, kaolinite may have been added to make the overall colors lighter on the Tolita-Tumaco ceramics tested in this study.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
The paper relies on this without support.
Coastal Ecuador during the Regional Development Period (RDP) may be one of the only places in South America where blue and blue-green colorants were used on ceramics.
“Coastal Ecuador during the Regional Development Period (RDP), dating from around 500 BC to 600 AD, may be one of the only places in South America where blue and blue-green colorants were used on ceramics.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Blue and blue-green ceramic colorants in ancient South America are almost non-existent.
“In ancient Mesoamerica, examples of Maya Blue and blue copper carbonate-based pigments are relatively widespread, but blue and blue-green ceramic colorants in ancient South America are almost non-existent.”
The paper relies on this without support.
The post-fire blue and blue-green colorants used along the northern coast of Ecuador are notable for their vivid colors and longevity.
“The post-fire blue and blue-green colorants used along the northern coast of Ecuador are notable for their vivid colors and longevity.”
The paper relies on this without support.
The label on the La Tolita sherd accurately identifies its origin from the site La Tolita.
“The first sample was taken from a sherd (Figs.12) identified as originating from the site La Tolita by a label on the ceramic itself.”
The paper relies on this without support.
The original accompanying label accurately identifies the figurine as collected along the Rio Mataje.
“Provenance information for this figurine was found on the original accompanying label, which suggests that it was collected along the Rio Mataje.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Celadonite and glauconite are closely related and indistinguishable using XRD and SEM-EDS testing methods.
“These minerals are closely related and indistinguishable using XRD and SEM-EDS testing methods.”
The paper relies on this without support.
No mineral other than celadonite or glauconite could produce the observed XRD and SEM-EDS results for the blue-green colorant.
“Together, the two tests indicate that the bluegreen color originates from celadonite or glauconite.”
The authors state this as an assumption.
The majority of coastal Ecuadorian green and blue-green colorants contain green earth.
“if the majority of the coastal green and blue-green colorants contain green earth”
The paper relies on this without support.
There are no known sources of celadonite and glauconite within the Tolita-Tumaco cultural area.
“There are no known sources of celadonite and glauconite within the Tolita-Tumaco cultural area, suggesting that these pigments or the objects bearing the colorant were obtained from elsewhere.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Green and blue-green post-fire colorants were used with some frequency on coastal Ecuadorian ceramics.
“Green and blue-green post-fire colorants were used with some frequency on coastal Ecuadorian ceramics and are often found on figural imagery, though they can also be seen on ceramic house forms and other pieces, like the sherd tested in this study.”
The paper relies on this without support.
There are no known sources for riebeckite close to the Tolita-Tumaco area in Ecuador or Colombia.
“There are no known sources for riebeckite close to the Tolita-Tumaco area in Ecuador or Colombia.”
The paper relies on this without support.
The closest access point to the Cayo Arc is within the Manabí Province.
“The closest access point to the Cayo Arc is within the Manabí Province, suggesting the potential for trade relations with the Jama-Coaque culture.”
The paper relies on this without support.
With the exception of kaolinite, the minerals identified as potential colorants are not frequently found as colorants.
“With the exception of kaolinite, these minerals are not frequently found as colorants.”
Self-check
Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.
Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.
Ferdon 1940b citation points outside the listed page range
MinorThe text cites page 259 of Ferdon 1940b, but the reference list gives that work a page range of 138-143. Page 259 falls instead within the listed range for Ferdon 1940a.
“(Ferdon 1940b: 259)”
“12. Ferdon Jr., E. N. (1940b). The Archaeological Survey of Ecuador, Palacio 47(6), 138-43.”
Citations
Cites
Ancient West Mexican Metallurgy: South and Central American Origins and West Mexican Transformations
Hosler, D. (1988) · American Anthropologist · doi:10.1525/aa.1988.90.4.02a00040 · Cited by 112
A sourcebook of Nasca ceramic iconography: reading a culture through its art
(2007) · Choice Reviews Online · doi:10.5860/choice.44-3940 · Cited by 59
Arnold, D. E., Neff, H., Glascock, M. D., & Speakman, R. J. (2007) · Latin American Antiquity · doi:10.2307/25063085 · Cited by 47
Ancient West Mexican Metallurgy: A Technological Chronology
Hosler, D. (1988) · Journal of Field Archaeology · doi:10.1179/009346988791974475 · Cited by 46
Machiels, L., Garcés, D., Snellings, R., Vilema, W., Morante-Carballo, F., Paredes, C., & Elsen, J. (2013) · Applied Clay Science · doi:10.1016/j.clay.2013.10.018 · Cited by 43
Prehistoric trade between Ecuador and West Mexico: a computer simulation of coastal voyages
Callaghan, R. T. (2003) · Antiquity · doi:10.1017/s0003598x00061731 · Cited by 38
Ancient Maritime Trade on Balsa Rafts: An Engineering Analysis
Dewan, L., & Hosler, D. (2008) · Journal of Anthropological Research · doi:10.3998/jar.0521004.0064.102 · Cited by 32
Rousaki, A., Vázquez, C., Aldazábal, V., Bellelli, C., Carballido Calatayud, M., Hajduk, A., Vargas, E., Palacios, O., Vandenabeele, P., & Moens, L. (2017) · Journal of Raman Spectroscopy · doi:10.1002/jrs.5107 · Cited by 32
Donnan, C. B. (1992) · Cited by 28
Scott, D. A. H., Scheerer, S., & Reeves, D. J. (2002) · Studies in Conservation · doi:10.1179/sic.2002.47.3.184 · Cited by 21
Doménech‐Carbó, A., Doménech‐Carbó, M. T., Vidal‐Lorenzo, C., de Ágredos-Pascual, M. L. V., Osete‐Cortina, L., & Valle-Algarra, F. M. (2013) · Journal of Archaeological Science · doi:10.1016/j.jas.2013.08.007 · Cited by 20
The La tolita—tumaco culture: master metalsmiths in gold and platinum
Scott, D. A. (2011) · Latin American Antiquity · doi:10.7183/1045-6635.22.1.65 · Cited by 19
Raman microscopic investigation of paint samples from the Rosalila building, Copan, Honduras
Goodall, R. A., Hall, J., Viel, R., Ricardo Agurcia, F., Edwards, H. G. M., & Fredericks, P. M. (2006) · Journal of Raman Spectroscopy · doi:10.1002/jrs.1606 · Cited by 18
An archaeological sequence for the santiago-cayapas river basin, esmeraldas, ecuador
Tolstoy, P., & DeBoer, W. R. (1989) · Journal of Field Archaeology · doi:10.1179/jfa.1989.16.3.295 · Cited by 17
X-RAY ANALYSIS OF GREEK BRONZE AGE PIGMENTS FROM THERA (SANTORINI)
PROFI, S., PERDIKATSIS, B., & FILIPPAKIS, S. E. (1977) · Studies in Conservation · doi:10.1179/sic.1977.014 · Cited by 16
Heamig, P. D. (1979) · Biotropica · doi:10.2307/2387782 · Cited by 13
An Analysis of Mayan Painting Techniques at Bonampak, Chiapas, Mexico
Magaloni, D., Newman, R., Balos, L., Castaño, V. M., Pancella, R., & Fruh, Y. (1995) · MRS Proceedings · doi:10.1557/proc-352-381 · Cited by 12
Trade and social complexity in coastal ecuador from formative times to European contact
Martín, A. J. (2010) · Journal of Field Archaeology · doi:10.1179/009346910x12707320296676 · Cited by 11
Wright, V., Meneses, I. A., & Laval, É. (2015) · Heritage Science · doi:10.1186/s40494-015-0059-9 · Cited by 10
An Archaeometric Characterization of Ecuadorian Pottery
Polo, A. S., Briceño, S., Jamett, A., Galeas, S., Campaña, O., Guerrero, V. H., Arroyo, C. R., Debut, A., Mowbray, D. J., Zamora‐Ledezma, C., et al. (2019) · Scientific Reports · doi:10.1038/s41598-018-38293-w · Cited by 9
DISCOVERY AND CHARACTERIZATION OF AN UNKNOWN BLUE‐GREEN MAYA PIGMENT: VESZELYITE*
García-Moreno, R., Mathis, F., Mazel, V., Dubus, M., Calligaro, T., & Strivay, D. (2008) · Archaeometry · doi:10.1111/j.1475-4754.2007.00370.x · Cited by 6
Traces behind the esmeraldas shore
DEBOER, W. R. (2011) · doi:10.2307/jj.30347400 · Cited by 6
Colores al Norte del Lago Traful, Neuquén, Argentina
Aldazábal, V., Silveira, M., Custo, G. S., & Ortiz, M. (2014) · Boletín del Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino · doi:10.4067/s0718-68942014000200006 · Cited by 5
Symbols Ideology and the Expression of Power in La Tolita Ecuador
Townsend, R. F. (1998) · Art Institute of Chicago eBooks · doi:10.37862/aaeportal.00118.023 · Cited by 5
Stuccoed Tripod Vesselsfrom Teotihuacan: An Examination of Materials and Manufacture
Fletcher, J. M. (2002) · Journal of the American Institute for Conservation · doi:10.1179/019713602806112940 · Cited by 1
(1955) · Editorial Minerva eBooks
Flagged first, then by citations
2 of the 28 references couldn’t be matched to a known paper.
Research works printed but not linked: 16
- Aloupi, E., A.G. Karydas, and T. Paradellis (2000). Pigment analysis of wall paintings and ceramics from Greece and Cyprus. The optimum use of X-ray Spectrometry on specific archaeological issues, X-Ray Spectrometry 29(1), 18-24. https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1097-4539(200001/02)29:1%3C18::AID-XRS397%3E3.0.CO;2-5 · DOI
- Boschin, M. T. (2011). Chemical and mineralogical analysis of Argentine Patagonian Rock Paintings: A Multidisciplinary Reading, L'Anthropologie 115 (3-4), 360-383.
- Brooks, W. E., V. Piminchumo, H. Suárez, J. C. Jackson, and J. P. McGeehin (2008). Mineral pigments at Huaca Tacaynamo (Chan Chan, Peru), Bulletin de l'Institut français d'études andines 37(3), 441-450.
- Cummins, T. (1992). Tradition in Ecuadorian Prehispanic Art: The Ceramics of Chorrera and Jama-Coaque, in: F. Valdez, D. Veintimilla, and M. Reyes (eds.), Amerindian Signs: 5,000 Years of Precolumbian Art in Ecuador, Quito.
- Ferdon Jr., E. N. (1940b). The Archaeological Survey of Ecuador, Palacio 47(6), 138-43.
- Ferdon Jr., E. N. (1941). Reconnaissance in Esmeraldas, Palacio 49(1), 7-15.
- Grissom, C. A. (1986). A study of green earth, in: Feller, R. (ed.), Artists' pigments: A handbook of their history and characteristics, 141-167, Archetype Publications, Ontario.
- Lubensky, E. H. (1991). The Ferdon collections of prehistoric ceramic vessels and sherds from Esmeraldas Province, Ecuador, Ph.D. Dissertation, Department of Anthropology, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia.
- Masucci, M. A. (2008). Early regional polities of costal Ecuador, in: H. Silverman and W. Isbell (eds.), Handbook of South American Archaeology, Springer-Verlag, New York City.
- Morante Carballo, F. E. (2004). Las Zeolitas de la costa de Ecuador (Guayaquil): geología, caracterización y apli- caciones, Ph.D. dissertation, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid.
- Rice, P. M. (2016). Pottery analysis: A sourcebook, Second Edition, University of Chicago Press, Chicago.
- Bastidas, M., A. Sánchez Polo, M. Mármol Villarroel, and F. Espinoza Guerra (2018 ). Los pigmentos del desarrollo regional en la costa ecuatoriana: hallazgos de los analisis de laboratorio, in: V. Bravo (ed.) Pigmentos y brillos en la costa del Ecuador precolombino, Museo de Arte Precolombino Casa del Alabado, Quito.
- Sánchez-Polo, A. (2018). Pigmentos y brillos en la costa del Ecuador precolombino/ Pigments and Sheens on the Coast of Pre-Columbian Ecuador in: V. Bravo (ed.) Pigmentos y brillos en la costa del Ecuador precolombino, 21-53, Museo de Arte Precolombino Casa del Alabado, Quito.
- M.G Guérin (ed.), Crónicas iniciales de la conquista del Perú, 37-63, Plus Ultra, Buenos Aires.
- Simmons, M. P. (1970). The Ceramic sequence from La Carolina, Santa Elena Peninsula, Ecuador, Ph.D. Dissertation, Department of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson.
- Strazicich, N. M. (2002). La Quemada's Pseudo-Cloisonné Tradition, Archaeology Southwest Magazine 16(1), 7.
Cited by
Sorted by citations
Amadori, M. L., Mengacci, V., Callieri, P., Chaverdi, A. A., Bartolucci, M., Eftekhari, N., Andreotti, A., & Holakooei, P. (2024) · Heritage · doi:10.3390/heritage7030058 · Cited by 1
Metadata
- Authors
- Reiss, B. F., Spilde, M., & Peterson, E.
- Affiliations
- University of New Mexico (US)
- ORCID
- Spilde, Michael
- Venue
- Boletín De Arqueología PUCP
- Publisher
- Sistema de Bibliotecas PUCP
- Published
- 2019-09-24
- Issue
- 27
- Pages
- 117-132
- ISSN
- 1029-2004 (ISSN-L)
- 2304-4292
- OpenAlex
- W2946891078
- Cited by
- 1
- References
- 28
- Citations by year
- 2024: 1
- FWCI
- 0.00
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- es
- Open access
- diamond
- doi.org
- Locations
- Boletín de Arqueología PUCP (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- UNM’s Digital Repository (University of New Mexico) (submittedVersion)
- LA Referencia (Red Federada de Repositorios Institucionales de Publicaciones Científicas) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
- Portal de Revistas PUCP (N/A) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
- Topics
- Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › Archeology (arts and humanities) › Cultural Heritage Materials Analysis
- Physical Sciences › Earth and Planetary Sciences › Geochemistry and Petrology › Mineralogy and Gemology Studies
- Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › Archeology (arts and humanities) › Archaeological and Geological Studies
- Keywords
- blue pigments, blue-green pigment, ceramic pigments, celadonite, glauconite, riebeckite, glaucophane, cordierite, antigorite, mineralogical composition, cross-cultural comparison, Ecuadorian coast, ceramic figurines
About these checks
Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.
A language model drew the claims from the paper on 2026-11-10, under version 3 of the claim definition (model deepseek-v4.1-flash, prompt extract-v3).
A second model labelled each claim on 2026-11-10 (model jev-1.13-20260917, definition revision gold-guideline-v0.2).
Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.
Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.
What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›
Are you an author, or do you see a problem with this page? Request a review
