Crossing the Borders: New Methods and Techniques in the Study of Archaeological Materials from the Caribbean

Investigating Stone Bead Drilling Techniques / 89
perimental piece. Many of the Antiguan examples are remarkably parallel- sided
with slight flaring near the end, indicating bidirectional drilling (De Mille and
Varney 2003). Evidently, our drilling procedure allowed continued cutting of the
upper sidewalls, an occurrence that did not appear to occur as frequently in the archaeological
examples.
Conclusion
To conclude, we remain convinced of the viability and utility of this technique as
a method for investigating bead manufacturing, specifically drilling, techniques.
However, we are continuing to refine our methods. In terms of understanding the
manufacturing techniques utilized by the Antiguan Saladoid craftspeople, the use
of an abrasive with a softer drill, such as wood, is strongly suggested for the softer
calcite examples. The use of abrasive, as demonstrated by concentric abrasion
rings, is more strongly evidenced in the archaeological examples, rather than the
experimental piece, where we know for sure that an abrasive was utilized. Further
experimentation with abrasive use and different stone types should be profitable.
Acknowledgments
We would like to extend our gratitude to Paul O’Neill of Balmoral Dental Designs
for providing expertise and aid in the replication of the bead bores, and Al
McKenzie of the Lakehead University Instrumentation Laboratory for assistance
at the SEM.
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