Geopolymer composition and material analysis of Atzlan artifacts. The research paper by Trevor Hawk investigates the geopolymer hypothesis as a primary indicator of authenticity for the Atzlan Collection artifacts Geopolymers are artificial stone-like materials based on aluminosilicates bonded using acid or alkaline solutions, discovered/rediscovered in the last 50 years The artifacts are described as low-temperature ceramics containing unusually high amounts of iron and copper along with normal aluminum

Trevor Hawk's paper examines geopolymers—artificial aluminosilicate stone materials—as authenticity markers for the Atzlan Collection. These low-temp ceramics are rich in iron and copper, show visible inclusions, and formed a hard enamel surface. Stylus evidence suggests some engravings happened during gel-phase drying while others came after hardening.

Key Facts

  • The research paper by Trevor Hawk investigates the geopolymer hypothesis as a primary indicator of authenticity for the Atzlan Collection artifacts
  • Geopolymers are artificial stone-like materials based on aluminosilicates bonded using acid or alkaline solutions, discovered/rediscovered in the last 50 years
  • The artifacts are described as low-temperature ceramics containing unusually high amounts of iron and copper along with normal aluminum
  • Artifacts contain large inclusions that are sometimes organic, sometimes crystalline, sometimes iron, visible from the outside
  • A hard enamel surface forms on the outside during curing, with the same chemical compounds as the interior but in different ratios
  • Stylus evidence suggests some engravings were made during the gel stage of polycondensation (while drying), showing raised lips; other engravings show flaked/chipped edges suggesting carving after hardening