"Crystal Skulls" tackles the enduring mystery of these captivating objects, investigating whether they are ancient Mesoamerican relics or more recent creations. The book uniquely combines scientific materials analysis with historical research to challenge popular beliefs about the skulls' origins. For instance, electron microscopy reveals tool marks inconsistent with pre-Columbian technology, and crystallographic studies compare the skulls' structures with known quartz sources.
The book progresses systematically, beginning with an overview of the history and associated myths of crystal skulls. It then delves into the scientific techniques used to analyze the skulls, followed by an examination of historical documentation. This approach reveals the likely origins of the skulls to be 19th-century European workshops, reframing them within the context of art history and commercial trade rather than ancient civilizations. The investigation also sheds light on the history of art collecting and the relationship between indigenous communities and European markets.