The Organization of Chipped-Stone Economies at Piedras Negras ...

hammerstone use-flakes and celt use-flakes. The bulb of force features a sheared cone
similar to that found in bipolar reduction (Figure 3.4). Thus, the ventral surface is angular
and does not have the same morphology as the rejuvenation or resharpening flake.
Nevertheless, the platform shows heavy use-wear, usually attributable to pounding or
chopping activities, and in the case of celt use-flakes, the dorsal side of the flake reveals a
fine scarring pattern. Hammerstone use-flakes can be identified by the severe incipient-
cone scars on the platform and on the ventral surface of the flake. Hammerstone flakes,
however, feature no fine, biface-flaking pattern on the dorsal surface.
5.7: SUMMARY
This chapter has reviewed the morphologies and reduction techniques associated
with microcrystalline-quartz artifacts at Piedras Negras. I have emphasized aspects of
microcrystalline-quartz artifacts that may reflect local and nonlocal chipped-stone
traditions. The morpho-technological tool typology, in particular, has been structured for
easy reference. It is hoped that the structure will facilitate future cross-site comparisons
of microcrystalline-quartz tools.
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