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Joukowsky Institute for Archaeology & the Ancient World
Brown University
Box 1837 / 60 George Street
Providence, RI 02912
Telephone: (401) 863-3188
Fax: (401) 863-9423
Joukowsky_Institute@brown.edu
Stratigraphy is a branch of geology that focuses on the study of rock layers and layering. In archaeology, it is essential for excavations. It is based on the Law of Superposition, which states that sedimentary layers are deposited in a time sequence, with the oldenst on the bottom and the youngest on the top. Since most archaeological sites are below the surface of the ground statigraphy is used to contextualize archaeological findings in order to draw conclusions about the site.