Black Obsidian from Pampa del Asador (Santa Cruz, Patagonia Argentina): A regional source

Abstract

Lithic artifacts manufactured in black obsidian from Pampa del Asador have a wide spatial and temporal dispersal in Southern Patagonia. The distribution of this lithic resource was previously addressed to discuss hunter- gatherers mobility and circulation patterns in Patagonia. This work presents new information regarding the distribution, density and size of obsidian pebbles and cobbles in Pampa del Asador. We detail new outcrops and link them to regional archaeological information. Results show that Pampa del Asador offers a wide-ranging availability and variability of pebbles and cobbles which are easily transportable for carrying out different technological strategies in the region. Thus, results offer new insights for discussing mobility, lithic production, and manufacture of certain artifacts, as well as chronology.