David Berikashvili

Dr. David Berikashvili

Archaeology, Anthropology and Art, University of Georgia, Tbilisi, Georgia
+3

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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24 April 2024 in Minerals
Verified
Journal Article
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NRNatalia Rovella
Natalia Rovella
MAMaria Pia Albanese
Maria Pia Albanese
Maria Francesca AlberghinaMaria Francesca Alberghina
Maria Francesca Alberghina
SSSalvatore Schiavone
Salvatore Schiavone
Michela RiccaMichela Ricca
Michela Ricca
Mauro F. La RussaMauro F. La Russa
Mauro F. La Russa
An archaeometric approach was applied to the study of the hoard found in the Samshvilde fortress, one of the richest areas of archaeological artefacts in Caucasian Georgia, since it is representative of the historical events from the Neolithic period until the most recent epochs. In this context, four coins dated back to the 12th–13th centuries AD to the reign of King Giorgi III, Queen Tamar, and King Giorgi IV of Georgia underwent different analytical methods to collect information about the technological production process, the probable forge location, and their conservation state. Optical microscope observations provided details about the decorations, the stylistic aspects, and a preliminary evaluation of the conservation state. Portable X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis revealed a composition consisting almost exclusively of copper with a lower amount of tin, lead, and silver. Moreover, degradation products (copper chlorides and sulphates) and cuprite patina were identified. The metal-supplying areas could be related to the nearby Bolnisi Mining District, and the forge location could coincide with the hoard location in Samshvilde, but further data and analyses are necessary.