Metals in Lake Sediments as Indicators of Human Activities in Prehistory: Case Study of the Southeastern Baltic, Kamyshovoe Lake

This paper presents the results of geochemical research on Kamyshovoe Lake sediments (Kaliningrad oblast, Russian Federation). The study Pb, Ni, Zn, As, Co and Cu concentration enrichment factors (EF) combined with lithological, geochronological, magnetic susceptibility microcharcoal studies revealed possible anthropogenic sources metals in southeastern Baltic lake from Neolithic to Medieval period. Increasing EF value peaks Pb sediments, starting ~6000 cal yr BP Neolithic, probably show growing role usage as dyes fixatives. Since ~3100 BP, end Bronze Age, a simultaneous increase content indicators metallurgical production Zn coinciding growth curve, can demand for metal objects region input local or regional ancient metallurgy into pollution sediments.