| Summary: | <p>Dosimetric dating techniques rely on accurate and precise determination of
environmental radioactivity. Gamma spectrometry is the method of choice for
determining the activity of <span class="inline-formula"><sup>238</sup></span>U, <span class="inline-formula"><sup>232</sup></span>Th, and <span class="inline-formula"><sup>40</sup></span>K. With the aim
to standardize gamma-spectrometric procedures for the purpose of determining
accurate parent nuclide activities in natural samples, we outline the
basics of gamma spectrometry and practical laboratory procedures here. This
includes gamma radiation and instrumentation, sample preparation, finding
the suitable measurement geometry and sample size for a given detector, and
using the most suitable energy peaks in a gamma spectrum. The issue of
correct efficiency calibration is highlighted. The procedures outlined are
required for estimating contemporary parent nuclide activity. For estimating
changing activities during burial specific data analyses are required, and
these are also highlighted.</p>
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