Is TL sufficient for authenticity?
TL is only one tool in the investigation for authenticity. It cannot give the complete picture although it can do many things. It gives an absolute, objective measurement of the time since the clay at the sampling site was fired. In addition it can detect unfired clay and restoration material. If samples are taken from several locations on the piece, TL can indicate if sections are made from a similar clay. As an independent dating tool, it is invaluable. Several other methods will be needed to get the complete picture. For example, • X-rays will show joins and restoration which may not be visible under the outer layers. • Various methods can be used to detect the elemental composition of a pigment. • FTIR (see above) will find organic materials in the clay, which may have been used for consolidation or even re-modelling.
