Mining tools and lithic production in a mining production context or how can the expected become unexpected

Abstract

In archaeological. research it is common practice to infer the function of prehistoric tools from their typology and the context m which they were recovered. However, analysis of function based on the inspection of macro- and microscopic use-wear evidence is the only way to provide credible support for such inferences. The present work reports data gathered during the use-wear analysis of a sample of antier and stone artefacts found in the Neolithic mine of Casa Montero. These data certify that the antler tool recovered were not mining tools, while the knapped stone tools provide new information regarding activities undertaken in this flint mining context, as well as the taphonomic processes occurring at the site. The proposed uses of these tools indicate human habitation near the site.