Archaeology Term: Cortex
Cortex, in archaeological terms, refers to the outer layer of a stone tool or core. It's the original, natural surface of the stone before it has been shaped into a tool. This outer layer is often weathered or chemically altered, giving it a distinct appearance.
The amount of cortex present on a stone tool can provide valuable information about its stage of production. A flake with a large amount of cortex, for instance, might be a primary flake, removed early in the process of shaping a tool. On the other hand, a flake with little or no cortex might be a secondary or tertiary flake, removed later in the process.
Archaeologists use the presence or absence of cortex to categorize stone tools and understand the sequence of toolmaking activities. By analyzing the patterns of cortex removal, they can reconstruct the steps involved in creating different types of tools and gain insights into the cognitive abilities and technological skills of ancient toolmakers.
Furthermore, the study of cortex can help identify the source of the raw material used to make a tool. Different types of stone have distinct cortical characteristics, which can be used to trace the movement of people and materials across landscapes.
In essence, the analysis of cortex is a fundamental aspect of lithic analysis, providing crucial clues about the past. By examining the patterns of cortex removal and the types of stone used, archaeologists can piece together the puzzle of human history and gain a deeper understanding of our ancestors' lives.
