Experimentation and microwear analysis in lithic artifacts manufactured on Andesites (Tucuman, Argentina)

Abstract

In this paper we present the preliminary results of the experimentation related to the use given to lithic artifacts. The objective is to identify microwear traces that allow defining the use of artifacts covered by rock varnish, from Rio Las Salinas 2 archaeological surface, in Amaicha del Valle, Tucuman. For this a reference collection was made. The experimentation was carried out using the three varieties of Andesites B, G and P that are the most represented among the archaeological assemblages. Natural edges, retouched flakes, scrapers and knives were made and they was used to scraping, cutting and barking on different substances (fresh and dry wood, bone and meat). The identification of microwear traces to establish the function of the artifacts was carried out through the functional analysis through the observation of macro and use micro-striations formed on the edges of the artifacts. The results constitute an important contribution to the knowledge of the functionality of open air sites in this sector of the Northwestern Argentina.