A thriving zinc extraction industry existed at Zawar between the 14th and the 18th centuries AD. Samples of ashes, slags, smelting residues and mortars collected on recent excavations have been analysed for Pb, Zn, Fe, Ag and Cd using atomic absorption spectroscopy. These data allow us to reconstruct details of the ore benefication, roasting and charge preparation processes and shed light upon the discard and reuse of the waste materials and their current dispostion on the site. History of metallurgy and analysis of materials both relate to conservation.