Preliminary characterization and regional comparison of the Dasht-i-Nawur obsidian source near Ghazni, Afghanistan

► Obsidian source in central Afghanistan identified in the 1970s, but not studied since that time. ► Archival specimens analyzed using multiple geochemical methods. ► Preliminary characterization of the Dasht-i-Nawur source is provided. ► Comparisons of these data to regional obsidian source groups suggest it is chemically unique. ► This is just one example of how work to preserve laboratory archives can benefit current research.