Nondestructive Fingerprinting of Ivories Using Fourier Transform Imaging Fluorescence and Raman Spectral Imaging

Abstract

Fingerprinting of ivory products is of considerable importance for both commercial and forensic reasons. An attempt at achieving nondestructive fingerprinting using a combination of optical methods is presented. It is based on Fourier transform imaging fluorescence (FTIF) and on micro‐Raman imaging. Although, fluorescence and Raman spectra of ivories have been studied, this is the first application of the imaging versions of these techniques. It is shown that the combination of the proposed spectral imaging methods may provide unique fingerprinting of the studied samples. The large range of the Raman spectra and the unique method that provides full fluorescence spectrum at each pixel, ensures proper fingerprinting of a variety of ivory samples.

Keywords:

• Fingerprinting
• Ivory
• Raman spectroscopy
• FTIF

Acknowledgments

This research was supported, in part, by the James–Franck Program in Laser–Matter interaction. V.B. is grateful for financial support provided to new immigrant scientists by the Israeli Ministry of Absorption.