In today's world, Tool stone has become a relevant topic of interest in different areas. From science to culture, Tool stone has significantly impacted society, generating debates, research and deep reflections. With a global reach, Tool stone has captured the attention of experts and the general public, becoming a crucial point of discussion and analysis in the academic, social, political and economic spheres. In this article, we will explore various perspectives on Tool stone, addressing its meaning, implications and consequences in different contexts.
In archaeology, a tool stone is a type of stone that is used to manufacture stone tools,[1] or tools that use stone as raw material.[2]
Generally speaking, tools that require a sharp edge are made using cryptocrystalline materials that fracture in an easily controlled conchoidal manner.[1] Cryptocrystalline tool stones include flint and chert, which are fine-grained sedimentary materials; rhyolite and felsite, which are igneous flowstones; and obsidian, a form of natural glass created by igneous processes. These materials fracture in a predictable fashion, and are easily resharpened. For more information on this subject, see lithic reduction.
Large-grained materials such as basalt, granite and sandstone may also be used as tool stones, but for a very different purpose: they are ideal for ground stone artifacts. Whereas cryptocrystalline materials are most useful for killing and processing animals, large-grained materials are usually used for processing plant matter. Their rough faces often make excellent surfaces for grinding plant seeds. With much effort, some large-grained stones may be ground down into awls, adzes, and axes.