This book has been written both as a reference work for conservators who work with excavated materials (excavators, finds researchers, archaeometrists, museum curators, collectors, administrators) and as an introduction to the subject for those setting out to train as archaeological conservators. A general survey of current processes and practice introduces individual chapters dealing in detail with agents of preservation and decay; techniques of conservation; silicaceous materials; metals; and organic materials. A final section offers a brief guide to relevant organisations, training facilities and publications. Throughout this unique book, the author has taken care to explain all but the very basic scientific terms as simply as possible.