Provenience

Noun: In Archeology Provenience, refers to he actual place or findspot of an object, while provenance refers to its modern (post-excavation) history.

Example: “The photo shows beautiful examples of spindle whirls that were given to the museum but their provenience is uncertain.”

Pronounciation clue: Rhymes with “convenience.”

Provenience is often confused with provenance. They are “tell” words for archeologists. If you misuse them you are letting on that you are not well trained in the field. Sherds vs Shards serve the same purpose.

The photo is of a spindle whirls postcard made by the S’edav Va’aki Museum back when its name was Pueblo Grande.

This is being published on the same day that S’edav Va’aki is having its official name changing ceremony.

Thanks to Becca V for this useful new word. Full disclosure: I am a volunteer tour guide at the museum.