Chemical and molecular profiling of waterlogged ancient ivory

Abstract

This research focuses on the chemical and molecular analysis of elephant ivory from two 18th-century British ship-wrecks in the Atlantic Ocean: The Princess Louisa, lost off May Island, Cape Verde, in 1743, and the BH-001 wreck, discovered in Horta Bay, Faial Island, Azores. Both shipwrecks yielded substantial ivory collections, providing a unique chance to investigate their ancient routes. A multi-analytical approach was employed that included X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier-transform infrared spec-troscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), and DNA analysis. These methods were used to distinguish elephant species (African vs. Asian), profile the chemical composition, and evaluate preservation states of the waterlogged ancient ivory. Results showed that ivory from both wrecks originated from African elephants. However, differences in elemental and molecular signatures, as well as varying degrees of structural degradation, suggested distinctions in environmen-tal exposure. This comparative research demonstrates that combining chemical and molecular methodologies is effective in recon-structing the historical context of submerged ivory cargoes. Further research may improve the identification of ivory trade centres and support improved conservation strategies for underwater cultural heritage.