Radiocarbon dating (C14)
Dating the organic material of an object.
The practice carries out radiocarbon dating of objects containing organic material. François Ngouoh, archaeologist, leads the process from sampling to interpretation.
Who it is for
- Collectors and heirs who want to place the age of a piece in wood, fibre or bone.
- Galleries, insurers and notaries who need a material element in the file.
- Institutions and researchers looking for archaeological support.
How it works
- Scoping: nature of the object, materials present, question asked.
- Choosing the sampling point, the least visible and most representative.
- Taking a few milligrams, with your written consent.
- Measurement by an independent specialist laboratory.
- Report: calibrated range of dates, discussion and reservations.
What you receive
- A dating report with the calibrated range and the method used.
- An archaeological reading of the result, integrated into the practice’s opinion if you wish.
- Traceability of the sample from sampling to laboratory.
Limits and precautions
- Only organic materials can be dated: an object made entirely of metal or stone is not concerned.
- The result dates the material, not necessarily the making; wood may have been reused.
- Sampling is discreet but irreversible: it is never done without written consent.
- A dating does not replace an opinion of authenticity: it informs it.
Frequently asked questions
Going further
How long does it take?
Allow three to six weeks in general after the laboratory receives the sample.
Will the object be damaged?
Sampling is minimal — a few milligrams — and taken from the least visible area. You are told beforehand.
What does it cost?
Dating is charged per sample; see the Fees page.
Next step
Radiocarbon dating (C14)
Describe your piece in a few lines and attach photographs: the reply is confidential.