Evidence of gold–refining

These rather dull-looking fragments of fired clay were excavated in Friernhay in 1981. Scientific analysis of the residues on their surfaces showed that they had formed parts of small vessels, sealed with domed lids, used in separating silver from gold.

This exciting discovery was published by Justine Bayley in her paper ‘Precious Metal Refining in Roman Exeter’ in Proceedings of the Devon Archaeological Society No. 59 (2001), pp 141-7.

Acknowledgments: RAM Museum