POLLEN AND PHYTOLITH ANALYSIS OF SAMPLES FROM A SHRINE AT THE SITE OF GEGHAROT, ARMENIA

Thirty-five samples of sediment adhering to a variety of vessels and grinding stones from the site of Gegharot in Armenia were examined for pollen and phytoliths. Samples were obtained by washing the tools in the field, then submitting the washes to PaleoResearch Institute. They were received in two shipments, allowing preliminary analysis of the first fifteen samples to assess issues of preservation prior to completing the study. Recovery of both pollen and phytoliths from the initial samples indicated sufficient remains for a complete analysis. Similarity in remains recovered from many of these washes results in focus of the analysis on recovery of the “minor elements” of each record. Crops, weeds, and regional vegetation all appear to be represented. Samples span the Early and Late Bronze age. One sample attributed to the Iron III occupation also was examined.