Alum, which was not readily found at all Roman locations, has been determined to be the most common mordant used. By tracking the transport of alum, and by simply examining where it can be found, historians are able to draw inferences as to where Romans acquired the agent. Finds such as this not only provide insight into weaving techniques, but also strengthen evidence reported by ancient authors. When one aspect of ancient texts can be verified, scholars are able to better trust other, unconfirmed evidence from the same authors. In conclusion, analyzing ancient textiles can provide a considerable amount of indirect information about Roman culture.
Evidence relating to fashions and material preferences are the most common.
Trading practices and interaction with foreign cultures are reflected in ancient textiles. Improvements and inventions relating to the textile industry can be traced through ancient fabrics, and as previously shown, can sometimes be recreated through them. Farming and breeding histories are also reflected in ancient fabrics. Although much of this information is only assumed to be accurate, many of these assumptions themselves could not be made without the information provided by ancient textiles. While ancient textiles tended to be overlooked in the past, since many early archaeologists were concerned with finds that would make them either rich or famous, they have come into their own over the past century.