Scientific Datasets in Archaeological Research Through Pottery Dating and Provenance Cases
Recent trends in archaeological research dictate the incorporation of various analytical methods for dating, chemical/mineralogical characterization, morphological description, etc. of various excavation findings and landscapes to support and corroborate the archaeologists' observations. Each method, when used individually, provides a different feedback, but once single studies are combined, the information produced can significantly contribute to the solution of the archaeological puzzle. Thus, numerous scientific data and metadata are produced creating large and complex scientific datasets. The use of common terminology and definitions to describe these data along with the establishment of a formal standardized structure any cultural heritage information could be mapped to would assure the credibility and durability of such scientific datasets. The chapter provides an overview of the types and formats of the scientific data/metadata produced in the archaeological research through the detailed presentation of the common practices used in pottery dating and provenance studies.