Bulk element composition versus trace element composition in the reconstruction of an obsidian source system

It has become possible, through compositional analysis, to differentiate among discrete obsidian quarry and collecting localities within a single source area. The analytical potential of such information is considerable yet studies are seldom undertaken owing to the difficulties associated with trace element analysis.This study is intended to explore the feasibility of using bulk element data instead of trace element data in such compositional analyses. Techniques of bulk element analysis are far more accessible to archaeologists. The results of an experiment utilizing carefully controlled samples from the El Chayal obsidian source, Guatemala, are reported and discussed.