Accurately dating the creation and development of earthwork features is a long-standing problem for archaeologists.

In Antiquity 94, Vervust et al. used optically stimulated luminescence profiling and dating (OSL-PD) to assess whether field boundaries at Bosigran (Cornwall, UK) were prehistoric in origin, as believed. Their results provide secure construction dates for different boundaries in the Bronze and Iron Ages, as well as chronologies for their early medieval and later development. Their research demonstrates not only the prehistoric origins of these distinctive Cornish field systems, but also a practical and cost-effective methodology suitable for dating earthworks around the world.