Hammerstone

Hammerstone.jpg A typical hammerstone used in prehistoric times

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A hammerstone is a hard cobble used by prehistoric peoples as a tool to strike lithic flakes from a core of stone in the process of lithic reduction. Hammerstones are among the oldest known tools used by early humans and are a key component in the study of archaeology and anthropology.

Description

Hammerstones are typically made from a hard, durable rock such as quartzite, basalt, or granite. They are often rounded and fit comfortably in the hand, allowing for effective striking. The size and weight of a hammerstone can vary depending on the specific task it was used for, ranging from small pebbles to larger cobbles.

Function

The primary function of a hammerstone is to serve as a percussive tool in the process of flintknapping, where it is used to detach flakes from a core stone. This process is essential in the production of stone tools such as hand axes, scrapers, and arrowheads. Hammerstones can also be used for other purposes, such as cracking nuts or bones to extract marrow.

Archaeological Significance

Hammerstones are significant in archaeological studies as they provide insight into the technological capabilities and behaviors of early human societies. The presence of hammerstones at an archaeological site can indicate the practice of tool-making and the types of resources that were available and utilized by prehistoric peoples.

Examples of Use

Hammerstones have been found at numerous archaeological sites around the world, including the famous Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania, where they were used by early hominins such as Homo habilis. These tools are often found in association with other stone tools and animal bones, suggesting their use in butchering and processing activities.

Also see

• Lithic reduction
• Flintknapping
• Oldowan
• Acheulean
• Core (archaeology)
• Stone tool