Artifact Casting
Artifacts are often put on display as part of public engagement
efforts designed to involve the public with archaeological and historic
resources. These displays can be part of project open houses,
school‐based education programs, community and museum displays
The use of original artifacts is often not permitted for extended periods of display. These factors
could include:
• The fragile nature of the artifact
• Private ownership
• Cultural sensitivity issues
Unlike other replication processes, casting involves making a highly detailed mould of the original
artifact. Numerous durable resin casts can then be made from the mould, transferring precise
details to these replicas. Casts can be handled numerous times and not wear. The same colour,
weight, and finish can be replicated, resulting in a cast visually identical to the original artifact.
Casts have been used in museum displays, school‐based education programs, and public education
workshops, as well as items to be presented to First Nations communities, donors and collectors
who relinquish original artifacts, and institutions requesting additional studies.
Process
Artifact casting involves making a rubber mould from an original lithic artifact, and then injecting
resin into the mould to make numerous casts or replicas of the original. Any original artifact being
cast will be subject to mild chemical and dye reactions (any sort of residue analysis should be
completed before process begins).
Below are examples of artifact casts. In each plate, the original artifact is also shown. Can you spot the original?
Cost
The cost of replicating an artifact depends entirely on the size, complexity, and raw material of the
original. Original artifacts that are large require more rubber for moulds. Original artifacts that are
opaque (no light can be seen through artifact) can be cast in a resin, whereas artifacts that are translucent
or semi‐transparent (light can be seen through the artifact) should be cast in
polyurethane (which may requires use of a vacuum chamber). Below is a cost estimate for a selection of
artifact sizes.
If you have any questions or would like an exact quote for a specific artifact, please contact me.
