Archaeologists use a variety of tools to excavate and study artifacts and ecofacts. Some of the most common tools used during an excavation include shovels, trowels, spades, brushes, sieves, and buckets. These tools are used to carefully recover artifacts and ecofacts so that they can be identified and studied. Archaeologists also use a variety of tools during the survey process while searching for sites, such as traditional and electronic compasses, tape measuring units, and GPS devices. In addition to these basic tools, archaeologists may use more specialized tools depending on the type of excavation. For example, marine archaeologists use hoses to collect samples from underwater sites for sifting, and they may use an exosuit for underwater digs. Some of the most common tools used by archaeologists include:
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Trowel: A small flat tool used to carefully scrape back the soil in a controlled manner so that artifact context can be recorded. Archaeologists can be specific about their trowels, liking different brands, styles, handle shapes, or levels of wear.
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Brush: Brushes make it easier to see what you are working on and can help clean and reveal fine details when you are excavating. Paint brushes or makeup brushes work well, but really any soft brush will do.
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Dental Pick: Archaeologists use this dentist’s tool to remove dirt from around small fragile artifacts.
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Screen: A tool used by archaeologists to recover small artifacts. Dirt is sifted through a mesh screen, allowing artifacts to be caught in the mesh while the dirt falls through.
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Forms: Archaeologists keep precise records on everything they do. They record where they dig, what they dig, artifact locations, and what they find. These paper forms become an important part of the archaeological record.
Archaeologists also use a variety of recording tools to make sure they have all the data they need for proper analysis, such as pencils, pens, paper, and cameras. Overall, the tools used by archaeologists vary depending on the type of excavation and the artifacts being studied, but they all serve the purpose of carefully recovering and studying artifacts and ecofacts.
