Lithic Technology Studies: Analysis Of Stone Tools And Debitage
Lithic Technology Studies: Analysis Of
Stone Tools And Debitage
Archaeological Investigations Northwest, Inc. (AINW), offers standard and specialized analyses of stone tools and debitage. AINW works with you to identify a scope of services suited to your needs, schedule, and budget. We can perform analyses to address specific research questions or help you to develop a research design. We can assist with sampling and selection of analyses techniques. The types of analysis available, individually or in combination, include identification and evaluation of the following:
RAW MATERIAL TYPES
In addition to identification of basic raw material types (e.g., obsidian, basalt, cryptocrystalline silicates [CCS]), analyses include descriptions of key attributes of procurement (size, shape, and cortex types) as well as qualities that affect reduction approaches and suitability for particular uses (e.g., homogeneity and hardness). AINW has a comparative collection of lithic toolstone source materials. AINW maintains close working relationships with other laboratories for geochemical source analysis of obsidian, basalt, and CCS material.
MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUES
Manufacturing techniques and reduction sequences are identified from debitage and tools on the basis of a large body of comparative experimental data. Prehistoric use of heat-treatment to prepare raw materials for controlled flaking is identified from specific verifiable attributes. AINW lithic technology staff are skilled flintknappers who regularly replicate and test models of lithic technological systems.
TOOL USE
Experimental analogy also provides evidence of tool use such as breakage patterns, polishes, abrasion, microflaking, and residues. Microscopic analysis and imaging allow identification and documentation of subtle use-wear traces. AINW's in-house blood Residue Analysis Laboratory performs immunological tests for specific animal proteins.
RESHARPENING, REPAIRS, AND RECYCLING
Patterns of
resharpening, repairs, and recycling of stone tools are identified from flake scar and
break sequence analysis to determine the use-life history of artifacts. AINW has developed
techniques for correlating multiple obsidian hydration rind measurements with specific
surfaces on individual artifacts to determine relative ages of reuse for scavenged tools
and flakes.
DISPOSAL CONTEXTS
Stone tool users discarded tools for a variety of reasons. AINW's analyses identify disposal contexts associated with manufacturing errors, use-breaks, attrition, or replacement. In addition, post-depositional effects such as burning, weathering, patination, and mechanical damage are recorded by frequency and location of diagnostic attributes in order to assess the condition of archaeological assemblages.
REPORTS
Once analyses are completed, they can be reported to you in a variety of formats. Standard reports include text, tables, graphs, artifact drawings, and photographs (including photomicrographs when desired). Economical summary reports can be provided in database or tabular formats along with abbreviated descriptions or discussions of the data.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES:
AINW also offers Artifact Replications. Replicated archaeological assemblages are valuable analytical devices for interpretation of ancient technological activities and provide tests of behavioral models.
AINW teaches Classes in lithic technological analysis and flintknapping. The classes are offered at AINW's Portland, Oregon, laboratory and at special locations arranged for interested groups.
LITHIC TECHNOLOGY STAFF:
John
L. Fagan, Ph.D., (AINW Corporate President) is a 30-year veteran of specialized
lithic technology studies. John studied under Don Crabtree, a pioneer in the field and has
worked with numerous other experts. John has published extensively, and is on the
editorial board of the journal Lithic Technology.
Terry Lee Ozbun, M.A., (AINW Project Archaeologist) studied
lithic technology under Dr. Jeffery Flenniken and was awarded the Crabtree Memorial
Scholarship in Lithic Technology during graduate studies at Washington State University.
Terry has published articles and taught classes in lithic technology studies for 10
years..
Dan
Stueber, (AINW Lithic Specialist) studied lithic technology under Dr. Errett
Callahan and has taught classes and conducted analyses and replications of world-wide
stone tool technologies for 10 years..
Artifact illustrations by Sarah Moore
Site last modified: December 23, 2005
For more information, please email us: ainw@ainw.com
