Zinc mining has been an important part of human evolution since the times of the Greeks and Romans. If the Orichalcum that was described by Plato was in fact an alloy of Copper and Zinc, it may go back even further to the time of Atlantis. It is estimated that zinc was refined into copper and zinc alloys around 200 BC. Zinc alloy was used to fabricate Roman coins. In Transylvania, an idol made of 87.5% zinc was discovered and a zinc bracelet from Rhodes was traced back to 500 BC. For zinc to be used in Atlantis, we need to look back further.
Zinc in India
It is believed that India was the first country to smelt zinc. Lead and zinc were mined in Rajasthan, India as early as 1000 BC. The mines at Zawar are believed to be the world’s oldest. Alchemical texts from the region can be dated back to 500 BC explaining how to smelt zinc. The Jains settled in Zawar and used Zinc extensively. They took on the task of creating temples and religious icons which were made of 30% zinc. The Indian Archaeology Department is proposing that these ancient temples and statues be protected as a national treasure.
Zinc in England
In the southwest of England, mining began in Cornwall and Devon around the year 2150 BC. Zinc, tin, and copper were also mined until the last mine was closed in 1998. These rich lands were crafted by a combination of granite and sedimentary rocks which gave way to mineralization and metamorphism.
Zinc in the Middle East
The use of zinc has been traced back to ancient Israel although the source of the metal is unclear. Judean brass from the 14th to 10th centuries BC showed it contained 23% zinc. In Ancient Greece in the 7th century BC, artifacts were found that contained 80 to 90% zinc. It was also combined with other metals like lead, iron, and antimony to create brass for various ornaments.
It’s possible that the Indian and English zinc mining sites date back even further. Unfortunately their dating is based on known historical context. As such, Zinc mining really doesnt’ give us any additional clues as to the location of Atlantis. Both locations have a history of sunken cities so there is a likely connection to both India and England.
