Abstract

This paper proposes a new analytical procedure for identifying and mapping the introduction and spread of metallurgy to regions based upon the relative frequency of metal versus stone tool slicing cut marks in butchered animal bone assemblages. Experiments to be described here established the relationship between the edge characteristics of metal and stone tools and the marks they produce when applied to bone. Through the use of silicon molds of slicing cut marks analyzed through SEM, the type of tool used to produce such cut marks on bone can be identified. Quantifying the distribution over time and space provides insight into the process of the introduction and diffusion of a functional metallurgical technology for subsistence activities. Prehistoric data from the Central Balkans of southeast Europe are presented to illustrate the utility of the procedure. These data are used to calculate the frequency of use and relative importance of stone and metal implements over time, from the introduction of metallurgy during the Late Neolithic through the end of the Bronze Age.