Specialized Analysis - GAIA, coopérative de travail en archéologie

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Specialized analyses in archaeology are at the cutting edge of method and theory. Because they combine the knowledge and techniques of various scientific disciplines, such as anthropology, psychology, ecology, biology, and geology, and encourage the development of transdisciplinary methodologies, they permit us to deepen our understanding of the past by extricating previously untapped data. This rich information can be obtained without necessarily intensifying excavations or disturbing more surface area.

GAIA’s expertise resides in our innovative and exclusive methods of data analysis, always tailored to each specific discipline.

The services offered by GAIA are adapted to your needs, affordable, and at the cutting edge of archaeological research. Our proposed services always offer the prospective client more than one option, and our involvement can span the whole project, from beginning to end, or be restricted to a particular aspect.

GAIA, coopérative de travail en archéologie, and its team of experts offer many specialized services. If your desired type of archaeological analysis is not listed here, please get in touch with us

Archaeobotany
Archaeoentomology

Analysis and interpretation of archaeologically preserved seeds and charcoal macro-remains. This analysis contributes to the understanding of the relationships between humans and plants through time, and may include discussion of foodways, agricultural practices, architecture, tools, trade, presence and absence of species, forest management, and environmental reconstructions.

Analysis and interpretation of archaeologically preserved entomological remains (insects and ectoparasites). This analysis contributes to the understanding of the relationships between humans and their environment through time. We can address questions regarding hygiene, disease, health management, and reconstruct past environments as well as better define the evolution of ecosystems.

Zooarchaeology
Lithic and use-wear analyses

Analysis and interpretation of archaeologically preserved faunal remains (bones, teeth, antlers, and shells). This analysis can serve to reconstruct the environment of the site, but also contributes to our understanding of the relationships between humans and animals through time. Zooarchaeology permits the study of foodways, husbandry, butchering tools and practices, hunting, and fishing.

Analysis and interpretation of the techniques and methods employed to manufacture and use stone tools found in archaeological contexts. Lithic analyses permit the study of the techniques, cognitive abilities, socioeconomic choices, and cultural characteristics of a given society. Use-wear analysis is the specific study of the marks produced by the use of tools, which are observable when magnified under a high-power microscope. The function of specific tools can thus be ascertained, leading to additional data regarding site seasonality, migratory patterns, socioeconomic organization, and various sociocultural interactions.