Ionoluminescence and Cathodoluminescence in Marbles of Historic and Architectural Interest

Ion beam induced luminescence (IBIL) was applied, along with cathodoluminescence (CL), on seven samples of marbles of historic and architectural interest. The CL colours, observed in a cold cathode device, have been related to the IBIL spectra. Moreover, a detailed analysis of the IBIL spectral features has made it possible to disclose the influence of the chemical composition and to emphasize the crystal‐chemical role of the Mn2+. Beyond the chemical information and the crystal‐chemical interpretation, the spectra are recognized as being valuable in the field of archaeological studies for their significance as fingerprints of marbles, giving information on their nature and origin.