An experimental study of ground stone use-wear

Abstract

This thesis is a study of some factors that influence ground stone use-wear. Experiments in ground stone technology provide valuable information that may strengthen behavioral inference. To understand ground stone use-wear, basic principles are borrowed from tribology, the science and technology of friction, lubrication, and wear. Four wear mechanisms relevant to ground stone wear are identified: adhesive, abrasive, surface fatigue, and tribochemical. Previous experiments tested the hypothesis that use-wear on experimental grinding implements varies with the material being ground. This study further tests the same hypothesis. Six identical mano/metate sets were manufactured and used by the author to grind five different substances: dried chokecherries, wheat, crickets, dried meat, and salt. The sixth tool set was used without an intermediate substance. Results tentatively validate the hypothesis. Several factors influencing ground stone use-wear are discussed and suggestions for future experimental research in ground stone technology are offered.