Starch and chemical analyses in determining uses of archaeological jars from the guachimontones site, Mexico

Ceramics, by their constituent features, are resistant to degradation over time and thus are suitable for generating data that provide insight into their use. Thus, chemical and starch analyses were conducted on a set of eight ceramic jars registered at the archaeological site of Guachimontones. The tests applied were chosen in order to identify evidence of organic and inorganic waste. These analyses are complimentary because chemistry indicates the particular use of an artifact while starches corroborate their use in such things as food, medicinal, or ceremonial practices.