The Exploded Fine-Grained Volcanic Sources of the Desert West and the Primacy of Tool Function in Material Selection

Abstract

Fine-grained volcanic (FGV) procurement sites in western North America are examined with regard to the apparent preference for their use over alternatives that would conventionally be considered higher quality. A flintknapping experiment is described that addresses this issue, and the results are discussed in light of functional requirements in prehistoric, especially Paleoindian, technologies. Variability in the selection of FGV material is found to be based on strength and durability and can be seen to change according to textural differences. A case is made for reasserting the importance of function as critical to understanding the economics of lithic resource use. Particular emphasis is placed on how functional requirements interact with transport concerns in mobile toolkits. Data indicators are described that can be used to distinguish these priorities, and several Great Basin archaeological examples are provided.

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