Standard Rates

for Analysis of Archaeological and Geological Specimens

(Effective January 2024)

Sample pricing may vary depending on project needs. Contact the laboratory for a project-specific quote.

NAA XRF LA-ICP-MS MC-ICP-MS RS

Standard rates per specimen for NAA. Pottery, basalt, and other powdered samples are measured using both short & long irradiation procedures to determine 32–33 elements. All chert samples and obsidian source samples are measured using both procedures to determine 25–30 elements. Obsidian artifacts are measured with our short-irradiation procedure to determine 5–6 elements. If additional information is needed to definitively source the artifact, a long-irradiation procedure will also be conducted. Please contact the lab directly to discuss analysis of any other archaeological or geological material by NAA.

Sample Matrix Charge per Specimen
Pottery and fired-clay briquettes $125
Clays and soils subject to USDA APHIS $150
Artifacts and source materials of lithological nature (i.e., chert, basalt, etc.) $150
Hematite, Ochre, and Similar Matrices $130
Obsidian Artifacts & Source Specimens $50 (Short)
$150 (Short & Long)

Note that additional fees may apply.

The minimum charge for all analyses is $1,000, unless otherwise quoted.

In some instances, samples submitted to the Archaeometry Laboratory require extended preparation time, customized instrumental calibration, or other additional work. In these instances, the laboratory reserves the right to charge additional fees to cover costs associated with such efforts. Each project is unique, and it is not possible to predict the specific circumstances. Please contact the laboratory during the early planning stages of your project to ensure that we can provide accurate estimates of all associated costs.

Projects submitted at our standard rate receive priority over projects submitted through our NSF-subsidy program. Requests for the absolute highest priority of completion will be assessed an additional surcharge of up to 50%.

Please contact the laboratory to ensure an accurate cost estimate. A purchase order is required before your samples will be prepared for analysis.