Sourcing Archeological Lithic Assemblages: New Perspectives and Integrated Approaches

Stone tools have been a primary resource for humans for survival, and their recovery during archaeological excavation provides insight into trade and procurement patterns. Scholars in this volume employ unique and novel approaches to real-life contexts in multiple geographic regions, illustrating the numerous options available to archaeologists and researchers. A concluding review by Michael Glascock critiques each of the chapters and presents his views on sourcing raw materials gained over 40 years of experience in the field.

Format: Hardback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2023
Publisher: University of Utah Press,U.S.

For countless generations, humans have relied on stone as a vital resource for survival, shaping our material culture and history. Stone tools, renowned for their durability, comprise a significant portion of the archaeological artifacts discovered across the globe. The recovery of these tools during excavations provides valuable insights into their usage and discard locations, often revealing connections to the places where they were employed. By tracing the origins of the raw materials used to craft these tools, known as "sourcing," archaeologists gain valuable insights into trade and procurement patterns of ancient societies.

This comprehensive volume brings together scholars from diverse geographic regions who employ innovative and unique approaches to real-life contexts. Their studies showcase the wide range of options available to archaeologists and researchers, while also highlighting the challenges they face in their work.

The first section of the book delves into the technological aspects of sourcing, exploring a specific method of chemical analysis and discussing potential avenues for improvement. The second section focuses on region-specific and methodological sourcing applications, showcasing how knowledge of lithic sources, geologic processes, variation, and regional availability can enhance our understanding of past peoples.

In a concluding review by Michael Glascock, an experienced archaeologist with over 40 years of fieldwork, each chapter is critically evaluated, and his perspectives on sourcing raw materials are presented. The contributions in this volume collectively demonstrate how a deeper understanding of lithic sources, geologic processes, variation, and regional availability can provide a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of ancient societies.

This book is a valuable resource for archaeologists, researchers, and anyone interested in the study of human history and culture. It sheds light on the importance of stone tools in our past and highlights the innovative approaches used to uncover their secrets. By exploring the technological, regional, and methodological aspects of sourcing, this volume contributes to our growing knowledge of the ancient world and its complex societies.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647691080