> I coordinate an archaeological project at Panama Viejo, colonial > settlement in the Pacific coasst of Panama. We recoverrred a precolumbian > burial under a XVII century house floor.Before consolidation of bones, we > need to take samples for isotopic analysis. Which are the specifications > for proper bone samples? I'll appreciatte so much a soon answer. > Beatriz Rovira > Patronato Panama Viejo/Universidad de Panama > Dear Beatriz There is no simple answer to your question! It depends on the condition of the bones, and in tropical environments it can be pretty difficult because hot/wet conditions are conducive to loss of collagen and fungi & bacteria may invade the stronger skeletal elements which have more cortical bone and might otherwise be considered as fair game for isotope work. I would suggest you (i) take a few rib fragments, and a small phalange or two as sample material, (ii) use pieces that look like good bone and are not powdery, (iii) consider analysis of the enamel of a 3rd molar and (iv) if you haven't yet done so consult the person(s) who will perform the isotope work. good luck Julia Lee-Thorp Archaeometry Research Unit, Archaeology, University of Cape Town.